Super Eagles caretaker coach Augustine Eguavoen has expressed confidence in the team’s ability to adapt to any style of play, following their impressive 3-0 victory over the Benin Republic in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match. The Super Eagles demonstrated their tactical flexibility by employing a 3-4-3 formation that proved effective in the encounter.
The match, held on Saturday, saw the Super Eagles dominate the Benin Republic with a solid performance. Ademola Lookman was the standout player, scoring twice, while Victor Osimhen added a third goal as a substitute. Eguavoen’s tactical choice was clearly well-suited to the game, showcasing the team’s depth and versatility.
Eguavoen, who has been overseeing the team as a caretaker, praised the players for their adaptability and quality. He emphasized that the formation used against the Benin Republic was merely one of many possible systems. “The formation is only information. We have players of quality, and we can decide to play with any system,” he told reporters after the game.
Reflecting on the team’s performance, Eguavoen noted that the successful use of the 3-4-3 formation was a result of careful consideration and preparation. “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,” he added.
Eguavoen also addressed the external pressures and expectations from Nigerian fans, acknowledging that the team has faced criticism in recent times. Despite this, he remained optimistic about the squad’s capabilities. “The players are always there, and when much is expected by Nigerians, that is when you see them performing. We have been getting a lot of backlash, and the boys didn’t know this,” he said.
The coach stressed the importance of respect for opponents and the need for a strategic approach in each game. “And we know we have the calibre and quality to beat any team, but we have to respect teams anyway,” he remarked. He highlighted the significance of preparation and mindset, indicating that the team’s success depends on how well they assess their opponents and relay that information to the players.
Looking ahead, the Super Eagles are set to shift their focus to their next fixture against Amavubi of Rwanda. The upcoming match will take place at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Tuesday. Eguavoen and his team will be keen to build on their recent success and continue their strong performance in the qualifying campaign.
The Super Eagles’ convincing win over the Benin Republic and Eguavoen’s positive outlook reflect a renewed sense of confidence within the squad. With a solid foundation and the ability to adapt their tactics, the Super Eagles are poised to tackle future challenges with determination.
As the team prepares for their clash against Rwanda, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Eguavoen’s strategies and the players’ skills can lead to continued success. The upcoming match will be an important test of the Super Eagles’ resilience and versatility as they strive to secure their place in the Africa Cup of Nations.
