The Traffic

Eguavoen's Fourth Coming: Can Nigeria Avenge June's Loss to Benin?

Yakubu Haruna Yakubu 

The Nigeria Football Federation's (NFF) coaching fiasco has finally been salvaged by the appointment of Augustine 'Cerezo' Eguavoen as interim manager, marking his fourth stint in the role. Eguavoen's immediate task is to navigate the Super Eagles through two crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda.

However, the lead-up to Saturday's game against Benin has been marred by drama, including the Victor Osimhen transfer saga and Ademola Lookman's uncertain club future. Osimhen's temporary exit from Napoli and loan move to Galatasaray, as well as Lookman's links with Paris Saint-Germain and Arsenal, have raised concerns about their focus on the upcoming fixture.

Podcaster and digital marketer, Nwosu Michael Izuchukwu, expressed his reservations about Eguavoen's appointment, stating, "I just hope they're not thinking of turning it into a permanent basis. Because that option has not worked out for us three times in the past." Izuchukwu emphasized the need for a permanent solution, citing the talent and firepower of the current Super Eagles squad.

Benin Republic, under the guidance of Gernot Rohr, will be seeking to complete a stunning double over Nigeria, having defeated the Super Eagles 2-1 in June. Rohr, aware of Nigeria's desire for revenge, noted, "Nigeria is not a conquered territory, far from it. We beat Nigeria three months ago, they will certainly have a spirit of revenge which can be important and that is normal."

Izuchukwu admitted uncertainty about the outcome of the game, saying, "Honestly, I don't know what to expect. But if we field our best players who in turn go out there and fight for the badge, then I believe we will be okay and can get that all-important win."

The stage is set for a thrilling encounter between Nigeria and Benin Republic in Uyo. Will Eguavoen's experience and the Super Eagles' talent be enough to avenge June's loss, or will Rohr's men pull off another historic victory? Only time will tell.