Former Super Eagles defender Sam Elijah has urged the Benin Republic not to underestimate Nigeria ahead of their upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON qualifier in Uyo. Nigeria, runners-up in the 2023 AFCON, will face Benin on September 7, 2024, in their opening match of the qualifiers. Despite recent struggles, including a winless streak of three matches, Elijah remains confident that Nigeria will perform at their best when counted out.
In an interview, Elijah cautioned that the Super Eagles tend to shine brightest when underestimated, encouraging optimism for a strong performance in the qualifier. The Super Eagles are grouped with Benin, Rwanda, and Libya in the race for AFCON 2025.
Interim coach Austin Eguavoen is leading the team as they aim to return to winning form, following a disappointing run of results since the 2023 AFCON final loss to Ivory Coast.
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Sam Elijah’s comments reflect a deep understanding of the resilience that has long been a hallmark of Nigerian football. The Super Eagles have often thrived under pressure, especially when they are seen as underdogs. As they prepare to face Benin in the AFCON qualifiers, Elijah’s reminder is timely, serving as a rallying call for the team and their fans.
The Super Eagles have experienced a dip in form, but the upcoming qualifiers offer a fresh start. With experienced players and a solid technical team under Austin Eguavoen, Nigeria has the potential to reestablish itself as a dominant force in African football. Elijah’s confidence in the team’s ability to deliver when it matters most is shared by many Nigerian football fans, and all eyes will be on Uyo as the Super Eagles look to begin their qualification campaign with a victory.
Did You Know?:
- Nigeria has won the Africa Cup of Nations three times 1980, 1994, and 2013.
- The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, where Nigeria will play Benin, is often referred to as the Nest of Champions.
- Austin Eguavoen, the interim coach, was also the head coach when Nigeria finished third at the 2006 AFCON.
- The Super Eagles have faced the Benin Republic several times in recent years, with Nigeria historically dominating the fixture.
- Benin Republic is nicknamed the Cheetahs, a symbol of speed and agility in African football.
