Nigeria’s Super Eagles Gear Up for Crucial Africa Cup of Nations Qualifier Against Benin Republic
The Super Eagles are set to kick off their training session at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan, ahead of their highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Benin Republic on Thursday.
The team has finalized its 22-man squad, with the addition of Spain-based forward Sadiq Umar, who will join the team on Wednesday morning.
Coach Augustine Eguavoen expressed his optimism about the team’s atmosphere, saying, “We have a strong squad of 22 players, and we’re all looking forward to a productive first training session as we prepare for the match.” He praised the team’s environment in Abidjan, stating that it’s fantastic and conducive for a successful outing.
The team boasts a wealth of experience, with the arrival of key players like Captain William Ekong, reigning Africa Player of the Year Victor Osimhen, and others. Germany-based forward Victor Boniface and South Africa-based goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali touched down earlier today, joining the likes of Ademola Lookman, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Olaoluwa Aina, Victor Collins, Calvin Bassey, Alex Iwobi, and Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi.
Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, and forward Kelechi Iheanacho have also arrived, along with goalkeeper Amas Obasogie, defenders Gabriel Osho and Bruno Onyemaechi, midfielders Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Frank Onyeka, and Raphael Onyedika, as well as forwards Moses Simon and Samuel Chukwueze.
With 10 points from their first four matches and an unblemished defensive record, the Super Eagles enter the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan with confidence. The team has a history of success at this venue, having delivered impressive performances in past tournaments, including the 2023 AFCON.
Captain Ekong acknowledged the challenge ahead, noting that Benin Republic is also vying for a spot in the finals. However, he emphasized the team’s objective: “We’re focused on securing three points from this match.”
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Senegalese referee Issa Sy to oversee Thursday’s encounter, which kicks off at 7 PM CIV time (8 PM Nigeria time). His support team includes assistants Djibril Camara, Nouha Bangoura, and fourth official El Hadji Amadou Sy.
