As the final lap of the AFCON qualifiers approaches, anticipation builds over who will make the squad list.

Super Eagles interim head coach, Augustine Eguavoen faces the tough task of selecting the players who will represent Nigeria in these crucial games.

Austin Eguavoen. Photo | X

One name that could well be in contention is the in-form Genk striker, Tolu Arokodare.

Arokodare has been in scintillating form this season, delivering standout performances for Genk.

With 8 goals and 2 assists, no Nigerian No.9 has contributed more to their club’s attacking output this season—not even the usual suspects – Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface or Taiwo Awoniyi

The Super Eagles’ forward line is stacked with quality, however, Arokodare’s current form might just warrant his inclusion.

Compared to Taiwo Awoniyi, who has struggled for game time and yet to score or assist this season, Arokodare looks like a more promising option.

Taiwo Awoniyi. (Photo by MI News/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Victor Boniface has also impressed with 8 goals and 1 assist, but, his performances for the national team have yet to mirror his club success.

Victor Boniface. (Photo by Joris Verwijst/BSR Agency/Getty Images)

Some have attributed this to the differences in setup and style between his club and the national team.

Victor Osimhen, Nigeria’s undisputed number one striker, has been reliable as ever, netting 4 goals and providing 4 assists in just 7 appearances for Galatasaray.

Victor OSimhen celebrates. (Photo by Erhan Sevenler/Anadolu via Getty Images)

Yet, having fresh legs in the squad could add a new dimension to the attack, especially given Osimhen’s occasional injury concerns and Nigeria’s position in the group.

Why Arokodare?

Antwerp’s Christopher Scott and Genk’s Tolu Arokodare. (Photo by TOM GOYVAERTS/BELGA MAG/AFP via Getty Images)

Arokodare’s inclusion could provide the much-needed depth and versatility in Nigeria’s forward line.

His physical presence, goal-scoring instinct, and current form make a compelling case.

With Nigeria needing just a point from their remaining matches against Benin Republic and Rwanda to secure qualification, this could be the perfect opportunity for Eguavoen to test new talent like Arokodare.

Coach Eguavoen has a tough decision to make

Super Eagles coaches led by Austin Eguavoen during a training session. Photo | X (CoachDan_Ijabal)

The Super Eagles have a wealth of forward options, and competition for spots is fierce.

However, Arokodare’s current form and consistency at the club level could see him earn his first call-up and debut for the national team.

With Nigeria sitting atop their group with 10 points, the focus is on finishing the qualifiers strong.

Tolu Arokodare could be the fresh face the Super Eagles need to not only secure qualification but also explore new attacking options ahead of the World Cup qualifiers in March 2025.

Nigeria has picked up just 3 points from 4 games, sitting fifth in their group, a point above the bottom.