Benin Republic Press Worried as Nigeria Edges Closer to AFCON Qualification
Nigeria's Super Eagles are one step away from securing their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Morocco. With ten points from four matches, they sit comfortably at the top of Group D, needing just a single point from their final two qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda to seal their spot.
The Super Eagles will first face the Cheetahs of Benin Republic on Thursday night at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium, Abidjan. The match holds immense significance for both teams. While Nigeria seeks to clinch qualification, Benin Republic finds themselves facing a desperate fight to stay in contention.
Ahead of the crucial encounter, the Beninese press has expressed concerns about the national team's performance, particularly after their disappointing 2-1 loss to Rwanda in their last qualifier. The initial optimism that followed Benin's resurgence after Matchday 3 has since faded, leading to a growing sense of unease within the country's footballing community.
The Beninese media has been particularly critical of coach Gernot Rohr, who has been at the helm of the Cheetahs since 2021. In a recent article, Fraternite, a leading Beninese publication, condemned Rohr's squad selections for the upcoming matches against Nigeria and Rwanda. The publication described the team as 'a list without surprises… but with questions.'
“The list is worrying and there are enough doubts about the competitiveness of most of the players,” Fraternite claimed. “Indeed, he (Rohr) has remained faithful to his squad for almost two years without almost any new features. However, the expectations of the supporters are high.”
Super Eagles Camp Opens in Abidjan, Players Arrive
Meanwhile, Nigeria's Super Eagles have officially opened their training camp in Abidjan, as preparations for the Benin Republic match intensify. Eight players, including wingers Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon, have already arrived in the Ivorian capital. Defender Victor Collins from Nasarawa United and midfielder Alhassan Yusuf of the New England Revolution joined the camp on Monday morning, marking their arrival with the coaching staff.
Interim manager Augustine Eguavoen has returned from medical leave in Belgium and accompanied his coaching team to ensure a well-organized camp. The remaining players are expected to join the squad later this week, with training sessions set to kick off on Tuesday. Collins, the only home-based player selected in the 23-man squad, is receiving his first call-up for these qualifiers as Eguavoen aims to bolster the Super Eagles' defensive options.
The Super Eagles are confident in their chances of success against Benin Republic. The two teams last met in September at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, where Nigeria emerged victorious with a convincing 3-0 win thanks to a brace from Ademola Lookman and a goal from Victor Osimhen. While Nigeria will not underestimate Benin, who have proven capable of pulling off upsets in the past, the Super Eagles are focused on delivering a strong performance and securing their place in the AFCON 2025 tournament.
Nigeria's Super Eagles: A Team Loaded With Talent
The current Super Eagles squad boasts a wealth of talent, with several players proving their worth both domestically and internationally. The likes of Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, and Ademola Lookman have been particularly impressive, showcasing their attacking prowess week after week. Their contributions have been crucial in Nigeria's successful campaign so far.
As Nigeria stands on the cusp of qualification, the atmosphere within the team is one of determination and focus. The players are eager to make their mark on the international stage and bring glory to the nation. With Eguavoen leading the charge, the Super Eagles are poised to continue their winning streak and claim their place among Africa's footballing elite.
The Super Eagles' Journey to AFCON 2025: A Story of Determination and Triumph
Nigeria's road to the 2025 AFCON has been paved with challenges and triumphs. Despite facing difficulties, the Super Eagles have displayed resilience and determination throughout their campaign. They have shown their ability to overcome adversity and emerge victorious. The journey to the AFCON tournament has been a testament to the team's unwavering spirit and their commitment to achieving their goals. With their place in the tournament almost secured, the Super Eagles have a chance to etch their names in African football history and make their mark on the international stage. The anticipation for the upcoming tournament is palpable, and the Super Eagles are ready to rise to the occasion.
