Match against Libya is a World Cup final, Super Eagles coach declares

• Eguavoen compares Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 qualifiers against Libya to a World Cup final
• Nigeria tops Group D with four points, while Libya is bottom with just one point
• Daniel Ogunmodede has stressed the importance of victory to bring joy to Nigerians

Super Eagles caretaker coach Austin Eguavoen has sounded the battle cry ahead of Nigeria's crucial AFCON 2025 qualifiers against Libya later this month, comparing the upcoming match to a World Cup final. 

The Nigerian side, which currently tops Group D with four points from two games, faces a tricky test against a Libya team desperate to climb from the bottom of the table. Eguavoen has left no room for complacency, emphasising the need for his players to remain fully focused and determined.

With the first leg set for the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Eguavoen stressed the importance of taking every game seriously, saying, 

“We play against Libya back-to-back; it will be the same approach that we had for the previous games, but it’s a game at a time, so game 3 (vs. Libya) is a World Cup final.” 

He stated the need for fans to back the team, appealing for their passion and support. 

“We need the fans to be patient, and they should support the team with all their hearts,” he added.

Eguavoen also remains hopeful of fielding a fully fit squad, noting, 

“We hope to have the full complement of the team; let the boys stay injury-free; we have the players who can rule the world.” 

The Super Eagles have their sights firmly set on qualification, and Eguavoen's focus is on maintaining the momentum they’ve built so far.

Assistant coach Daniel Ogunmodede echoed the head coach’s call for focus, emphasising the responsibility the team feels toward the Nigerian people. 

“Because of the foundation laid by the head coach, we are committed to making Nigerians happy. As Coach Eguavoen told the players, Nigerians are in a difficult situation now, and one way to bring them happiness is by winning,” he explained.

The Super Eagles know they must deliver results, not only for their AFCON ambitions but also for the millions of fans who look to the team for pride and joy during difficult times.

Eguavoen denies resignation rumours, says he’s still in charge

Previously, TheRadar reported that reports swirled in on Tuesday night, September 10, that Super Eagles interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen had resigned from his role following Nigeria’s goalless draw against Rwanda in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. 

However, Eguavoen has swiftly denied these claims, clarifying that no such decision has been made and that he remains fully in charge of the national team.