When looking at the performance of the Super Eagles of Nigeria in their match against the Cheetahs of Benin, several key elements immediately come to mind. Firstly, Nigeria’s confirmation of participation in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations following Libya’s victory over Rwanda is great news for Nigerian football fans. This has undoubtedly created an atmosphere of confidence that was reflected on the pitch.
Despite the comfortable qualification situation, coach Austin Eguaveon opted to field a competitive team, even introducing Gabriel Osho for his debut. This bold move demonstrated the team’s determination to maintain their high level of performance and provide an opportunity for young talent to shine.
However, the match was not without its challenges. One of the major takeaways was the need for the Super Eagles to work on defending set pieces. The goal conceded from a corner kick clearly highlights a gap in the team’s defensive organisation, highlighting a weakness that could be exploited by future opponents. This vulnerability must be addressed ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Furthermore, the match highlighted Gabriel Osho’s mixed start. Despite his promising talent, the young defender struggled to adapt to international level, making mistakes that cost the team dearly. It is clear that he will need time to acclimatise and progress, but this match will undoubtedly provide him with valuable experience for the future.
Finally, Victor Osimhen’s perseverance and talent were once again highlighted. Despite a difficult start to the match, marked by an unexpected miss, the Super Eagles forward bounced back and scored a crucial goal for his team. His determination and leadership on the pitch were key elements in the team’s overall performance, placing him now among the highest scorers in the history of the national team.
In the end, the match between the Super Eagles and the Benin Cheetahs was a true eye-opener of the strengths and weaknesses of the Nigerian team. By learning from this encounter, the team will be able to strengthen its strengths and correct its shortcomings to approach the Africa Cup of Nations with confidence and determination.