In a decisive Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifier against Benin Republic, Nigeria’s caretaker coach Augustine Eguavoen demonstrated tactical prowess, steering the Super Eagles to a commanding 3-0 victory.
Eguavoen’s strategic reliance on the 3-4-3 formation, originally favored by former coach José Peseiro, proved to be a key factor in the victory, proving his understanding of the team’s strengths and weaknesses.
Reverting to Peseiro’s 3-4-3, A Tactical Statement :
Eguavoen’s choice to retain Peseiro’s 3-4-3 system came after a period of tactical shifts under different coaches.
His predecessor, Finidi George, had deviated from this formation in favor of a more conventional 4-3-3 setup, which led to a defeat to Mali, before home draw against South Africa and 2-1 defeat at the hands of former Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr back in June.
That results, coupled with the fall out with key players such as Victor Osimhen, and William Troost-Ekong, ultimately cost Finidi his position.
Eguavoen, however, reverted to the 3-4-3, a formation designed to balance defensive solidity with attacking fluidity.
This decision echoed the success seen earlier in the year, when the Super Eagles reached the AFCON final under Peseiro with the same tactical approach.
Clinical Performance Against Benin Republic:
The Super Eagles’ victory on Saturday was marked by a disciplined and clinical performance.
Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman led the charge, netting two goals, while substitute Victor Osimhen added a third.
The team’s defense, anchored by veterans William Troost-Ekong and Semi Ajayi, stood firm throughout the match.
Notably, Calvin Bassey who has been prone to errors in previous matches, delivered a more composed performance under the 3-4-3 system, benefitting from the added protection offered by the formation.
The victory not only once again proved the effectiveness of the 3-4-3 but also how key players were able to function properly, with Ekong, Lookman and Osimhen, in particular, were instrumental in reviving the form that carried Nigeria deep into the AFCON tournament earlier in the year.
Eguavoen’s Tactical Philosophy
Speaking after the match, Eguavoen downplayed the emphasis on formations, noting that the true success lies in the adaptability and mindset of the players.
“The formation is only information,” he stated.
“We have players of quality, and we can decide to play with any system. It’s all about understanding your opponent and preparing the team with the right mindset.”
Looking Ahead: The Road to AFCON
The victory against Benin Republic not only bolsters Nigeria’s qualification campaign for AFCON 2025 but also strengthens Eguavoen’s case for a more permanent role at the helm of the Super Eagles.
His decision to return to the 3-4-3 formation, combined with his tactical acumen, has revived optimism among fans and analysts alike.
As the Super Eagles prepare for their next qualifier against Rwanda’s Amavubi on Tuesday, all eyes will be on Eguavoen to see if he can build on this momentum.
With the flexibility to switch between systems and the talent of players like Osimhen, Lookman, and Troost-Ekong, the future of Nigerian football under Eguavoen’s guidance looks promising.
