Super Eagles head coach Augustine Eguavoen has announced his squad for Nigeria’s crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda. With Nigeria leading Group D, Eguavoen’s roster reflects a strategic approach aimed at securing the necessary points to confirm Nigeria’s qualification. The coach introduced fresh talent to cover for injured regulars, ensuring a balanced mix of experienced players and newcomers ready to make their mark.
Defenders Semi Ajayi and Olisa Ndah, both sidelined by significant injuries, have been replaced by Victor Collins, a promising defender from Nasarawa United, and Gabriel Osho from France’s AJ Auxerre. Eguavoen’s lineup features key players like captain William Troost-Ekong, Serie A star Ademola Lookman, and Africa Player of the Year, Victor Osimhen, as well as other notable figures across Europe’s top leagues. This lineup is anticipated to reinforce the team’s performance as they seek to extend their unbeaten run.
Eguaveon Introduces New Faces Bring Fresh Energy to Super Eagles Defense
The Super Eagles’ defense sees a shake-up as Eguavoen integrates new faces to cover for injured key players. Semi Ajayi’s hamstring injury and Olisa Ndah’s tibia fracture ruled them out, opening opportunities for Nasarawa United’s Victor Collins and France-based Gabriel Osho. This selection offers a blend of youthful vigor and tactical flexibility, with Collins making his international debut and Osho looking to earn his first cap after previously missing out due to injury.
Collins’ addition is a testament to Eguavoen’s commitment to strengthening the defensive line, with the coach noting that the young player’s performance in the Nigerian league has impressed selectors. Meanwhile, Osho’s inclusion promises depth and resilience, particularly in the absence of Ajayi, whose experience will be missed. Eguavoen’s strategic replacements are expected to maintain Nigeria’s defensive record, having conceded zero goals thus far in the qualifiers.
Nigeria Poised to Clinch AFCON 2025 Spot
Nigeria’s Super Eagles enter the final rounds of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers with confidence, needing just one point from two matches to secure their place in the tournament. Following a CAF decision awarding Nigeria three points from a previously abandoned match against Libya, the Super Eagles now lead Group D. Eguavoen’s squad will first face Benin Republic on November 14 in Abidjan, followed by a home game against Rwanda at Uyo’s Godswill Akpabio Stadium on November 18.
Eguavoen’s team has been on a strong path, recording a total of seven goals while maintaining a clean sheet throughout the campaign. With the return of forward Victor Osimhen and the recall of Real Sociedad’s Sadiq Umar, the Super Eagles’ attacking lineup looks formidable. As the countdown begins, Eguavoen and his squad are focused on delivering decisive performances that will seal their qualification and build momentum for next year’s AFCON tournament.
Super Eagles’ Comprehensive Squad for Benin and Rwanda Matches
Eguavoen’s squad selection showcases a well-rounded team composed of players from prominent leagues worldwide. In goal, the Super Eagles have called upon Stanley Nwabali, Maduka Okoye, and Amas Obasogie. The defensive lineup is led by captain William Ekong and includes international talents like Calvin Bassey and Olaoluwa Aina. Midfield strength comes from Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika, and Alex Iwobi, while the forward line boasts prolific players like Samuel Chukwueze, Victor Osimhen, and Ademola Lookman.
The coach’s decision to recall key figures like Sadiq Umar, who replaces Taiwo Awoniyi, underscores his commitment to maintaining a competitive edge. Additionally, new call-up Victor Collins will compete with Bruno Onyemaechi for the left-back position. This carefully assembled squad, poised to dominate Group D, embodies Eguavoen’s vision to drive Nigeria to AFCON 2025 as a title-contending team.
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