Ahead of the Super Eagles’ concluding 2025 AFCON qualifier against Rwanda, interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen has expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance so far, emphasizing resilience and determination, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Despite concerns over their inability to secure away victories, Nigeria has secured qualification for the tournament, leading their group with an impressive 11 points. Eguavoen remains optimistic about the team's overall form as they aim to close the qualifiers on a high note.
Nigeria’s campaign began with a convincing 3-0 home victory against Benin, setting the tone for their qualification journey. However, their subsequent away game against Rwanda ended in a goalless stalemate, highlighting the team’s challenges on the road. The Super Eagles bounced back with a hard-fought 1-0 win against Libya at home.
Controversy surrounded their away fixture against Libya, which was forfeited in Nigeria’s favor after CAF ruled that the Libyan hosts mistreated the Nigerian delegation, awarding the Super Eagles three valuable points.
The most recent match against Benin showcased Nigeria's resilience. Despite trailing for most of the game, star striker Victor Osimhen equalized in the 81st minute, ensuring a 1-1 draw and maintaining Nigeria’s unbeaten away record.
Reflecting on these performances during a pre-match press conference, Eguavoen defended the team’s ability to secure crucial points away from home.
“You can’t call it a poor away form; we haven’t lost a single away game,” Eguavoen asserted. “Football has evolved, and teams prepare intensely when facing Nigeria. Credit must be given to the players for their efforts in securing points away.”
Looking ahead, Eguavoen remained measured about his tenure as head coach, especially with the looming World Cup qualifiers. “Whether I will be in charge or not, we know the importance of approaching every game as a final. Let’s focus on what’s ahead and see how it unfolds.”
The World Cup qualifiers have proven to be a greater challenge, with the Super Eagles currently sitting fifth in their group, amassing just three points from four games. To stand any chance of progressing, Nigeria must win all their remaining fixtures. For now, however, the focus remains on wrapping up their AFCON qualifying campaign with a victory against Rwanda, reinforcing their readiness for the continental showdown in Morocco.