Super Eagles’ interim coach, Augustine Eguavoen has opted to maintain sealed lips on the strategy he will employ for Tuesday’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier away in Rwanda.
Sports247.ng was present as ‘Egu’ parried questions about tactics and technical aspects of the Eagles during the pre-match press conference in Kigali.
However, the returnee national team gaffer assured Nigerians that his players will give their best and overcome any intimidation thrown at them by the hosts’ supporters.
The defender-turned-coach, who was fondly called ‘Cerezo’ during his playing days, declared: “Intimidation is part of the game, but, for us, it is entertainment. We are here to entertain the fans and win the game.
“As we do that, we will also treat everyone with respect. But we intend to try and take something away from here.”
He further admitted that his team are bound to face a tough encounter on Tuesday, as The Amavubi will throw everything at them, and the crowd is bound to be partisan, while pressure will also be on his players from their fans in Nigeria.
“No matter who we play against, our fans expect us to win. Our opponents also respect us, and we don’t look down on anyone as well.
“Any country that plays against Nigeria will always try to raise their game. That’s why we have to be ready as well,” Eguavoen reasoned.
He then spoke about the health status of his players and disclosed that they are primed to prove their mettle starting from 2 pm Nigeria time on Tuesday.
“Everyone is fit, and they are ready to play any formation we give them. We have quality players who can fit into any style or formation. Whatever system we come up with, we have the personnel to play it,” Egu assured.
He concluded by revealing that he is personally in Kigali for the third time and noted that the reception accorded the Nigerian delegation on their arrival was commendable.
“It’s my third time being in Rwanda. I was previously here with my head coach then, Christian Chukwu.
“The warm reception they gave us was superb. A very friendly atmosphere and always great people. Since we came in, everything is going well. It’s nice to be back,” Eguavoen retorted.
He will now aim to keep his team on top of the table, as Nigeria beat the visiting Benin Republic in their first match, while Rwanda played 1-1 away to Libya.
