Super Eagles interim manager Austine Eguavoen sets their objective for the World Cup qualifier matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda.
Super Eagles interim coach Austin Eguavoen has dismissed talks of revenge against Benin Republic, stating that their objective is to get maximum points in both qualifier matches this window.
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Nigeria vs Benin: 'We have to learn from our mistakes' - AFCON MVP declares war ahead of AFCONQ
The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations Player of the Tournament has returned from injury and will lead the Austin Eguavoen side in their matches against the Cheetahs and Rwanda.
Nigeria vs Benin Republic: Part Two
The Cheetahs, led by former Super Eagles boss Gernot Rohr, shocked Nigeria back in June when they beat a Finidi George-led side 2-1 in the World Cup qualifiers.
The match in Uyo, scheduled for September 7th, has been billed as some sort of grudge match, given the result in Abidjan—Benin Republic’s makeshift home ground—and they are expected to carry this in their minds ahead of the AFCON qualifiers.
However, coach Eguavoen has dismissed the notion, stating that his team were not bothered about scoring revenge.
What Eguavoen said
Speaking to reporters ahead of the match, the former Gent defender stated that their only objective is to collect three points from the games against Benin Republic and Rwanda.
“Our objective is clear: to collect six points from both matches. The players are well aware of this, and they’re fully committed. Qualifiers are never easy, and every team wants to be at the AFCON finals, but we’ve spoken to the squad, and we’re all on the same page,” Eguavoen said.
“No one is talking about revenge. Our sole focus is on getting three points against Benin Republic on Saturday and then another three points in Kigali on Tuesday. These victories will set us on the right path towards qualification.”
The match against Rwanda comes three days after they will host Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo. The Super Eagles will aim to win both games and restore confidence in the team.