Super Eagles caretaker coach Austin Eguavoen has stated that Nigeria's upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifiers against Libya will be treated with the seriousness of a World Cup final.
The three-time African champions currently top Group D with four points from their first two matches, while Libya sits at the bottom of the table with just one point.
The first leg of the qualifier will take place at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo next Friday, followed by a return fixture in Benina four days later.
Eguavoen emphasised the importance of taking every game seriously, urging his players to remain fully focused. While acknowledging that no game is ever easy, the coach remains confident that his players will rise to the occasion and bring joy to Nigerian fans.
Super Eagles coach calls for patience and full support
Austin Eguavoen also called on supporters to remain patient and back the team as they strive for qualification.
“We play against Libya back-to-back; it will be the same approach that we had for the previous games, but it’s a game at a time, so game 3 (vs. Libya) is a World Cup final,” Eguavoen said in an interview with Brila FM.
“No game will be easy, but we will do everything possible to put smiles on the faces of Nigerians. We need the fans to be patient, and they should support the team with all their hearts.”
Eguavoen also expressed his hope for a fully fit squad, stating,
“We hope to have the full complement of the team; let the boys stay injury-free; we have the players who can rule the world.”
