Nigeria aims for revenge against Benin in Afcon qualifiers

Posted : 03 September 2024

Nigeria will be led by caretaker coach Augustine Eguavoen as they seek to avenge their recent loss to Benin when the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifiers commence on Wednesday. Eguavoen steps in after German coach Bruno Labbadia withdrew due to a disagreement over tax responsibilities with the Nigeria Football Federation.

Labbadia was initially set to face former colleague Gernot Rohr, who led Benin to a 2-1 victory over Nigeria in a World Cup qualifier three months ago. Benin’s triumph was notable as Jodel Dossou and Steve Mounie scored to overturn Nigeria's initial lead, despite the vast difference in their world rankings.

The defeat was particularly significant for Rohr, who had been dismissed from his role as Nigeria's head coach under pressure following a series of disappointing results. The loss also contributed to the departure of Finidi George, who left his role as Super Eagles coach after just four games.

Nigeria, the 2024 Afcon runners-up to Ivory Coast, boasts a wealth of attacking talent, including Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, and Ademola Lookman. Eguavoen has a strong squad at his disposal as they prepare for the Group D clash in Uyo.

In other opening-round fixtures, Cameroon faces Namibia amid ongoing disputes between the sports ministry and the national football federation about the match location. Originally set for Douala, it has been moved to Yaounde, but Eto'o’s insistence on Garoua has caused further confusion.

Egypt, with a record seven Afcon titles, will be looking to recover from their early exit in the 2024 tournament. Despite playing at home, they face a tough match against Cape Verde, who had a dramatic late draw in their previous encounter.

Ivory Coast will play Zambia without Sebastien Haller, who is occupied with a transfer deal. Coach Emerse Fae acknowledges the challenge, recalling past encounters. Zambia, also missing forward Patson Daka, will look to capitalize on this opportunity.

Morocco, with Soufiane Rahimi in their ranks, will face Gabon. Despite being the 2025 Afcon hosts, Morocco seeks competitive experience in Group B. South Africa, coming off a strong 2024 tournament, will play without their injured captain Ronwen Williams and forward Percy Tau, amid speculation about his future. Uganda will likely be well-prepared, thanks to their former goalkeeper Denis Onyango’s experience in South Africa.

Nigeria aims for revenge against Benin in Afcon qualifiers

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