Super Eagles’ interim coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has dismissed any talks of revenge ahead of Nigeria’s 2025 AFCON qualifiers against Benin Republic, Soccernet.ng reports.
Instead, the seasoned tactician is focusing on securing maximum points as Nigeria aims to book a spot at the prestigious continental tournament.
The Super Eagles are set to face the Cheetahs of Benin in their second 2024 fixture after suffering a 2-1 defeat in their first encounter at the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium in Côte d’Ivoire.
With their next showdown taking place at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Eguavoen is determined to turn the tide and pick up all three points against a Gernot Rohr-led Benin side.
“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, as quoted by Thisday.
He continued: “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.”
Following their encounter with Benin Republic, the Super Eagles will travel to Kigali for their next fixture against Rwanda, where they aim to complete the international break on a high note.