The Super Eagles of Nigeria will today lock horns against Les Guepards of Benin Republic in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.
The fixture marks the second meeting between the Super Eagles and Les Guepards in a space of four months, following their World Cup qualifier in June, where Gernot Rohr’s Benin secured a 2-1 victory.
The Super Eagles welcomed back key players, including Galatasaray’s new striker, Victor Osimhen and captain William Troost-Ekong, who was named the player of the tournament at AFCON 2023.
Both players missed June’s World Cup qualifiers due to injuries but are now set to reinforce Nigeria’s squad as they seek to avenge their recent loss to Benin and begin their journey to AFCON 2025 on a strong note.
Nigeria vs Benin: How to watch:
The Nigeria vs Benin 2025 AFCON qualifier would be aired live on Super Sports channel 204. Africa Independent Television (AIT) had also announced concluding arrangements to air the match. Also, fans could follow the social media channels of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and those of the Super Eagles for updates from the match.
The kick off time of the match is exactly 5 pm (Nigerian time). The match would be played at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
Nigeria vs Benin: Coach Eguavoen optimistic of victory
Meanwhile, Augustine Eguavoen, the Interim Manager of the Super Eagles has expressed optimism of his team’s victory against Benin Republic. Equavoen, who stated this at a news conference on Friday in Uyo, said there was no doubt about the Eagles victory today.
“We are sure of winning, expectations are high, we are at home and there is nothing short of winning. There is no doubt that the Super Eagles will win against Benin Republic,” Eguavoen said.
He said that he was not under pressure to win the match against Benin Republic.
“I love Nigerians that is why I am here. I didnt lobby for the position I am occupying right now. I didn’t asked for it and I didn’t apply for it, it is an intervention from God. Nigerians gave me the opportunity to be famous through football and any time a chance like this comes, I can’t say no” he said. I am here today just to answer the call from Nigerians,” he said.
He said the players are relaxed and in good shape, adding that they are at home to win and he can’t afford to lose at home. The coach said the team would approach tomorrow’s match with seriousness and do everything possible to come out victorious.
Also speaking, Troost Ekong, the Captain of the team, said his team would be at an advantage because the coach is a Nigerian.
“I don’t think where the coach is from will affect us, it is an advantage when we have a coach from Nigeria,” Ekong said.
He said the Super Eagles would win 100 per cent because they are prepared for the match.
“We have a new coach and that is not a big surprise but we need to carry on and we have to be better. We have to go through new campaign and we are not looking back,” Ekong said.
Ekong expressed optimism that Nigeria will win and go ahead to beat Rwanda in Kigali and qualify for Morocco 2025.
