Eguavoen Plans Changes as Super Eagles Prepare for Final AFCON Qualifiers

Eguavoen Plans Strategic Changes as Super Eagles Prepare for Final AFCON Qualifiers

As the Super Eagles prepare to close out their qualification campaign for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), interim coach Augustine Eguavoen is reportedly planning a key reshuffle in the goalkeeping lineup. With two games remaining against Benin and Rwanda, the Nigerian team leads the group comfortably, requiring only one point from six available to officially book their place at the tournament in Morocco.

Recent reports from OwnGoalNigeria suggest that the 59-year-old coach is considering a switch in goalkeepers for one of these decisive matches. Specifically, Eguavoen may bring Udinese’s Maduka Okoye into the starting lineup, replacing Stanley Nwabali. This potential lineup change comes after Okoye’s recent return to the Super Eagles squad, marking his first appearance since his error during the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon.

Eguavoen’s decision to reintroduce Okoye reflects his intention to foster competition in the goalkeeping department. By testing both Okoye and Nwabali in these upcoming games, he aims to keep both players sharp as Nigeria approaches the AFCON and subsequent FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Okoye’s recent performances with Udinese in Serie A have been strong, as the 25-year-old goalkeeper has recorded three clean sheets, contributing to the team’s push for European qualification under coach Kosta Runjaić.

With these final qualifiers on the horizon, Eguavoen’s tactical adjustments may be crucial in strengthening the Super Eagles’ squad for their upcoming challenges.