Peterside Idah has praised Austin Eguavoen for his strategic decisions during Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda.

Eguavoen chose to start Victor Boniface in the attack for both matches, leaving Victor Osimhen on the bench.

Peterside highlighted Eguavoen’s decision to bench Osimhen, stating that it was a precautionary measure due to Osimhen’s lack of recent competitive play.

He stated that such decisions, which prioritize player safety, demonstrate Eguavoen’s professional handling of the team.

“You know he benched Osimhen, not because Osimhen wasn’t good enough because Osimhen hasn’t played any competitive game yet and it would be dangerous for the player to just put him into a tournament or into a game, he will get injured, that was professionally handled.

According to the former Super Eagles goalkeeper, Eguavoen’s decision to substitute Alex Iwobi in the match against Benin Republic, and not field him in the subsequent game against Rwanda, was seen as a testament to his leadership.

He added that Eguavoen’s willingness to make tough choices reflects his growth and experience, affirming that the Super Eagles are on the right path under his guidance.

“The game against Benin, Iwobi didn’t play well right and he was comfortable enough not to play him in the second game, that is leadership for me.

“Eguavoen was the captain when we played, he was the captain of the national team, so he is a big boy now, he is part of the system and he is making the right decision. It is just for me, we are on the right channel,” He concluded.