By: Nafiu Toyin Abdulqadri.
The Super Eagles are set to face off against Benin at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium today in a crucial 2025 African Cup of Nations qualifier. The match marks the reverse leg of the Benin-Nigeria encounter, where the Super Eagles suffered a 2:1 defeat in the first leg.
Benin’s coach, Gernot Rohr, a former Super Eagles coach, is anticipating a tough duel, citing Nigeria’s superior talent and resources. “Nigeria has more good players who are playing in a big league. Benin, on the other hand, is a smaller country with 12 million inhabitants, so it’s not the same thing.”
Despite the odds, Rohr expressed confidence in his team’s preparation, acknowledging Nigeria’s strengthened squad. “We are ready for the match; we are aware that Nigeria has strengthened with some players who were not present in June. The match will be difficult, but we are ready.”
The Super Eagles, under interim coach Augustine Eguavoen, are eager to break their winless streak of three games. Eguavoen is determined to steer the team back to winning ways after a series of disappointing results that led to the sacking of Coach Finidi George.
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter, with the Super Eagles seeking redemption and Benin’s Cheetahs looking to prove their mettle. The match kicks off at 5 pm Nigerian time, and fans are eagerly awaiting the outcome. Will the Super Eagles rise to the challenge and secure a vital win, or will Benin’s Cheetahs pull off a stunning upset?