Super Eagles caretaker coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has expressed confidence ahead of their upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Rwanda, acknowledging the challenge posed by their hosts but vowing to secure a positive result.
Eguavoen, who is overseeing the team in the interim, emphasized the need for mutual respect between both sides but maintained that Nigeria, as three-time African champions, is in Kigali with the intention of winning.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Eguavoen reiterated the expectations placed on his team by their fans, underscoring the importance of staying focused regardless of Rwanda’s approach.
“Whatever formation Rwanda comes up with tomorrow, we are ready, the country is full of expectations. It doesn’t matter who will play, they expect us to win,” the former defender stated.
The coach also cautioned against complacency, pointing out the unpredictable nature of modern football, where underdogs can no longer be underestimated.
“We are here already, we respect Rwanda, but are here to get a good result. They respect us, we do respect them too,” he said, acknowledging that football has evolved and any team can spring a surprise if taken lightly. “We will play them with respect. You don’t look down on teams these days because football has improved; when you underrate teams, you might get shocked.”
Eguavoen further highlighted the pressure Nigeria often faces, with opposing teams raising their level of play when facing the Super Eagles.
“We will be on our feet, remember any country that is playing against Nigeria will always try to raise their game. We have to be ready as well,” he added.
The highly anticipated AFCON qualifying encounter is set to take place at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Tuesday, with both teams vying for crucial points in matchday two of the qualification series.
