The Super Eagles have landed in Uyo, after departing Abidjan, where they played a 1-1 draw against Benin on Thursday night in their penultimate AFCON 2025 qualifier.
Already qualified for the tournament, the three-time African champions top Group D with 11 points.
However, their performance against Benin raised questions, as many expected a more dominant display.
Instead, the team trailed 1-0 at half-time before Victor Osimhen’s equalizer salvaged a point.
Victor Osimhen celebrates as his teammates huddle joining in after Nigeria scored against Benin in the AFCON Qualifiers. Photo | X
Speaking in the post-match press conference, interim coach Austin Eguavoen described the result as satisfactory despite the team’s struggles:
“It was a fair result, though we were better than Benin. In the first 10–15 minutes, we lost focus and conceded.
Nigeria’s interim coach, Austin Eguavoen.
“We changed the complexion of the game, and I knew it was only a matter of time before we got the equalizer. For me, it was a fair result.”
With their return to Uyo, the Super Eagles are set to begin preparations for their final qualifier against Rwanda on Monday.
Rwanda, currently third in the group with five points, still has a chance to qualify, making this a crucial fixture for the East African team.
Godswill Akpabio Stadium Faces Shutdown Threat
In a separate development, the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo—scheduled to host the match—faces potential closure.
Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo. Photo | Brila
The construction company responsible for building the stadium has threatened to shut it down, citing the Akwa Ibom State Government’s failure to renew their 10-year maintenance contract, which expired in May 2024.
The company claims it has been financing the stadium’s upkeep since.
The Akwa Ibom State Executive Council has reportedly held an emergency meeting to resolve the issue and ensure the venue remains available for the match.
Preparations for Monday’s game are expected to proceed as planned while the situation with the stadium is addressed.
