Former Green Eagles and Stationery Stores midfielder, Adebayo Gbadebo, now a coach in Thailand, has exclusively told Completesports.com that the Super Eagles’ 1-1 draw against the Cheetahs of Benin Republic in Thursday’s AFCON 2025 qualifying Group D matchday 5 encounter at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan should serve as a “learning curve” for the team and Head Coach Augustine Eguavoen.
Mohamed Tijani struck early, netting for the Cheetahs just 17 minutes into the game as the Nigerians pressed forward in search of an equaliser. Expected talisman Victor Osimhen eventually headed the Super Eagles level with only nine minutes remaining.
The draw secured top spot in Group D for the Super Eagles and guaranteed their qualification for the 2025 AFCON finals in Morocco, with a game (against Rwanda on Monday) to spare.
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Speaking from Bangkok on Friday afternoon, Gbadebo highlighted the impact of inclement weather and Benin Republic’s early goal, which nearly derailed the three-time African champions.
As Eguavoen prepares the team for Monday evening’s “dead rubber” clash against the Amavubi of Rwanda in Uyo and the forthcoming World Cup qualifiers next year, Gbadebo urged the Super Eagles to take lessons from the Benin Republic encounter.
“First of all, I sincerely congratulate the Super Eagles for securing early qualification for the 2025 AFCON finals in Morocco. I also commend the coaches, especially Head Coach Augustine Eguavoen, the backroom staff, and the dedicated players,” Gbadebo stated.
“I’m happy to see the commitment and desire displayed by the players. This spirit hasn’t been in the team for a long time. Kudos to the coach for making this possible. The atmosphere in the camp has been fantastic, with players ready to compete and prove themselves.
“However, I think the Super Eagles underestimated the fight Benin Republic would put up. It was a shock for our team, but I trust Eguavoen’s experience. This game should teach the team to prepare thoroughly, especially against so-called ‘minnows.’ The match against Rwanda should reflect this lesson.”
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Gbadebo added: “Preparation for the Benin game was good, but we didn’t anticipate their 120% effort compared to our 90%. That early goal and the challenging weather conditions were a wake-up call. This match serves as a valuable learning experience for both the players and coaching staff.
“Eguavoen knows what to do, and I believe the players are ready to show they mean business. Monday’s game isn’t just about celebration; it’s an opportunity to affirm that the best team in Africa is back.”
Gbadebo also cautioned that despite already qualifying, the Super Eagles should expect a tough challenge from Rwanda, who will be desperate to win and keep their AFCON hopes alive.
“I expect an interesting game in Uyo. Rwanda will come with hope and confidence. But our players, with their experience and motivation from the home crowd, should handle the pressure.
“I just hope injuries from the previous game don’t affect the team. But with our squad depth, I’m confident the Eagles will close the year on a high, giving fans a glimpse of what to expect in the World Cup qualifiers next year.
“All the best to the team and Nigerians. I urge the Super Eagles to stay focused and approach the match with full preparation because Rwanda will not back down.”
By Sab Osuji in Uyo.
1 Comment
I still want to reiterate thst Egu made a big mistake not inviting Desseers,Akom, Maja , Akorodare and other Players in attack to try them out knowing that Boniface, Sadiq and Onuanu are failed to replicate club form for country. I pray and hope Osihmen does not get injured otherwise Nigerians world cup hopes are over since there is no reliable deputy for him and the Coaches do not see the need to search for one