AFCON 2025: Eguavoen Claims Super Eagles Can Defeat Any Opponent

 

Interim Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen expressed strong confidence in the team’s ability to overcome any opponent, attributing their success to the high caliber of players available.

Eguavoen made this assertion following his team’s 3-0 victory over the Cheetahs of Benin Republic in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State on Saturday.

“We have the quality to beat any team, but we also show respect for our opponents. Any coach stepping in could achieve similar results with the Super Eagles,” Eguavoen said. He emphasized that success comes from a mindset and understanding of the opponent, leveraging available information to perform effectively.

He attributed the win to the tactical formation chosen by the technical team, noting that any system could be employed to secure victory. “We can opt for any formation. This is something we discussed thoroughly, and with the players at our disposal, we can adapt our approach as needed. Football involves winning, losing, or drawing, but I believe we haven’t had a poor result,” he stated. Eguavoen praised the defense's performance as outstanding and mentioned that the team had been training together for a week.

He explained that asking six players to warm up for the second half was a strategy to manage time, emphasizing that there was no need for hasty substitutions.

Eguavoen acknowledged the Cheetahs of Benin Republic as a strong team with a solid game plan. He was appointed interim coach after a deal with German coach Bruno Labbadia fell through due to German tax regulations, according to a statement from the Nigeria Football Federation.