Super Eagles interim coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has expressed satisfaction with his team’s 1-1 draw against the Cheetahs of Benin Republic, noting their resilience and determination in Thursday’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match held in Abidjan, Cote d’voire.
The encounter saw the Nigerian side come from behind after an early goal by Mohammed Tijani put the Cheetahs in the lead just 16 minutes into the game.
Despite a challenging first half, the Super Eagles rallied, ultimately salvaging a crucial point with Victor Osimhen’s late equalizer, which came only eight minutes before full-time.
Reflecting on the performance, Eguavoen praised his players’ efforts, “It was a tough game and I congratulate the players for a spirited display in the second half that earned us the equaliser,” he shared with thenff.com.
Eguavoen also highlighted the challenging weather, acknowledging that “the downpour made the game difficult for both teams.”
However, he expressed relief that Nigeria had already secured qualification for the AFCON finals before this fixture.
Looking ahead, he remarked, “I am happy we have the AFCON finals ticket in the bag ahead of the final game of the series against Rwanda in Uyo on Monday.”
With the draw against Benin, the Super Eagles are set to complete their qualifying journey at home, hopeful of ending the series on a high note before heading to the finals.
