The Nigeria vs Benin Republic AFCON qualifiers clash in Uyo ended in a 3-0 victory to the Super Eagles, putting an end to their three-game winless streak.
A brace from Ballon d’Or contender Ademola Lookman, and a composed finish from substitute Victor Osimhen, were enough to secure a debut win for Austin Eguaveon in his third stint in charge of the Nigerian national team.
Eguaveon was under pressure to prove his mettle in his first game back as interim coach, following the team’s recent struggles and the failure to find a replacement for Finidi George, who resigned in June.
Eguaveon on Nigeria vs Benin Republic
Despite the victory, the 59-year-old refused to take all the credit, as he attributed the win to his players’ qualities.
Speaking in an interview after the game, Eguaveon said, as seen in a video posted by @Poojamedia on X
“The formation is only information. We have players of quality, and we can decide to play with any system.”
He further explained that he had confidence in his players abilities to interpret whatever tactics were deployed.
“There is something we discussed, and I slept over it, and I know that with the calibre of players we have, we can decide to play any formation and be successful.”
Eguavoen also acknowledged the criticism from fans concerning recent struggles faced by the team and praised his players for rising up to the occasion.
“The players are always there, and when much is expected by Nigerians, that is when you see them performing.”
Nigeria will now shift focus to their second AFCON qualifying game against Rwanda, which will take place in few days, hoping to carry on with this impressive performance.
