Super Eagles interim coach Augustine Eguavoen has issued a stern warning to the Benin Republic ahead of their crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON qualifier.
The three-time African champions are set to face Gernot Rohr’s Benin in their opening qualifying fixture, seeking redemption after their surprising defeat to Benin in June during the World Cup qualifiers.
This marks Eguavoen’s fourth stint as head coach of the Super Eagles, having previously served in 2005-2007, 2010, and 2022.
“Nigeria is a nation that a lot of countries respect and there is no difference in this one. I am very confident that we will scale through these two games and beyond.
We have the materials, we have the players, we have the personnel and the support.” Eguavoen stated.
He continued, “The only thing we have to remind these players about is that they were almost African champions months ago. It is not even a year yet. So what went wrong? So it is still them.
We will do everything we have to do as the technical crew, and of course, the Federation and Nigerians will rally around them. They are the ones to turn the table around.”
It is not bad. I have spoken to them. We are still going to have a series of meetings. I am very confident they will come out there and make the nation proud”.
Eguavoen also emphasized the importance of respect, saying, “we will treat Benin with utmost respect. No doubt about that because if you disrespect fit people, you will have a problem. We will play them with Big respect but hey, this is our home.”
With match schedule for Saturday, September 7th, the question remains: will it be a case of revenge or redemption for the Super Eagles?