Super Eagles interim coach Austin Eguavoen has expressed confidence in his team's ability to handle whatever challenges Rwanda may present when the two sides face off on Tuesday in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
Nigeria are set to take on Rwanda in Kigali in their second qualifier on Tuesday, following a resounding 3-0 victory against Benin on Saturday.
The win placed the Super Eagles at the top of their qualifying group, and they will be eager to consolidate their position with another victory.
Adaptability the key for Super Eagles
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Eguavoen expressed optimism about his team's preparation and flexibility to adapt to Rwanda’s tactics.
“We have quality players who are capable of playing different styles of football, in various formations, and within different systems,” said Eguavoen.
“So whatever formation or system Rwanda chooses to deploy tomorrow, we have the personnel to cope with it.”
Eguavoen also acknowledged the level of expectation on the shoulders of his players, but cautioned against taking the Amavubi for granted.
“Our country is full of expectations. It doesn't matter who we play, they expect us to win,” he said.
“We play people with utmost respect. You don't look down on people these days because football has really improved. When you joke with it, you can get shocked. So we will be on our feet.
“Remember, any country that is playing against Nigeria, they always try to raise their game; so we will have to be ready as well.”
Tuesday's meeting will mark the first fixture at the newly renovated Amahoro Stadium, and a significant crowd is expected. While the Super Eagles have not beat an opponent on their own patch since June 2023, Eguavoen was unbothered by the prospect of a loud home support.
“No intimidation at all,” he said. “The players have played in such situations before so it won't be an issue at all.”
