Iroha criticizes Super Eagles’ Rwanda display, supports Eguavoen

Former Nigerian defender Benedict Iroha has expressed his disappointment with the Super Eagles’ performance in their 2-1 loss to Rwanda during the final match of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers. Speaking to Complete Sports, Iroha described the team’s display at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo as one of the poorest he has seen.

This was the poorest performance I could have ever expected from the Super Eagles, Iroha said. He lamented the wasted opportunity for fringe players to impress and stake a claim for a place in the 2025 AFCON squad. Iroha noted that while the Super Eagles had already secured qualification for AFCON, the “dead rubber” match was ideal for building squad depth, but the players’ lacklustre mentality let them down.

The match saw Samuel Chukwueze and Victor Osimhen emerge as the bright spots after being introduced as substitutes. Chukwueze scored Nigeria’s only goal, bringing energy to an otherwise lacklustre performance.

Iroha also backed Augustine Eguavoen, the interim coach, for the permanent role. He highlighted Eguavoen’s rapport with the players and urged the Nigeria Football Federation NFF to offer him a formal contract to lead the team at the 2025 AFCON. Eguavoen has built a good rapport with the players. That kind of unity is vital for success, Iroha remarked.

Editorial

The Super Eagles’ defeat to Rwanda is a wake up call for Nigerian football. While the match may not have affected their AFCON qualification, the performance raised serious questions about squad depth and player mentality. Benedict Iroha’s critique underscores the need for a comprehensive strategy to ensure the Super Eagles are fully prepared for the challenges ahead.

Eguavoen’s efforts to test fringe players were commendable, but the players failed to capitalise on the opportunity. This highlights a need for a stronger emphasis on discipline, focus, and preparation, even in less critical matches.

Iroha’s support for Eguavoen reflects the coach’s positive impact on team cohesion. The NFF must carefully consider his track record and rapport with the players when deciding the Super Eagles’ coaching future. Stability and trust within the team are crucial for building a competitive squad for AFCON 2025.

Did You Know?

1. Benedict Iroha was part of Nigeria’s squad at the 1994 World Cup and the 1994 AFCON winning team.
2. Augustine Eguavoen has previously served as head coach and in caretaker roles for the Super Eagles multiple times.
3. The Super Eagles had already secured AFCON 2025 qualification before their match against Rwanda.
4. Samuel Chukwueze’s goal in the Rwanda game showcased his reliability as a game changer for Nigeria.
5. The match was held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, a regular venue for Nigeria’s international fixtures.