2025 AFCON Qualifiers: Ekong Credits Eguavoen for Massive Victory Against Benin Republic

Nigeria secured a 3-0 victory against Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, during their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Saturday.

The win comes after Nigeria’s loss to Benin in the World Cup qualifiers, completing their long awaited revenge.

Augustine Eguavoen (L) during the Africa Cup of Nations. (Photo by DANIEL BELOUMOU OLOMO/AFP via Getty Images)

Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong, in the post match interview, stated that the team respect the Opponent and they also belief in their current coach.

“We (Super Eagles) respect Benin. Last time we played against them, they won the game. Like I said, maybe only yesterday, we have great belief in our team, we have great belief in our coach.

“He’s like a family member who’s come back to us now, and we knew we had to take the responsibility today.”

Troost-Ekong added, “I think with the attacking talent that we have, we don’t have to name them, but I think everybody knows how dangerous we are. If we play well, we try our best to keep the door shut at the back, we’re going to create chances and we’ll score. I have great belief that if we give the boys enough balls up front, they’ll put them away.”

Victor Osimhen celebrates his goal during the 2025 AFCON Qualifiers between Nigeria and Benin Republic. Photo | IG

The captain also spoke about the flexibility of the Super Eagles, noting their ability to adapt to different formations.

“I think today was a good indication of the direction we want to head in and the first step of many that we have to take to be back at AFCON. We have players with quality who can decide to play any system.”

“It’s something we discussed and I also observed, I slept over it and I know with the calibre of players that we have, we can decide to play any formation and be successful.”

Troost-Ekong concluded by acknowledging the pressure on the team.

“When much is expected from Nigerians, that’s when we see performance. People have been getting a lot of backlash and the boys didn’t know it.”

“ We know we have the calibre and quality to be able to beat anything, but we respect teams anyway. It’s the mindset, we have the potential, it’s how you check out your opponent and give information and then you go out and do the job.”

The Super Eagles will continue their preparations as they’ll face Rwanda in their second qualifiers game on Saturday.