Nigeria’s quest to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) begins on Wednesday with a highly anticipated match against Benin. The Super Eagles will be led by caretaker coach Augustine Eguavoen, who stepped in at the last minute after German coach Bruno Labbadia pulled out of the role. Reports suggest that Labbadia’s decision to withdraw was due to a disagreement with the Nigeria Football Federation over his tax obligations, leaving Eguavoen to guide the team in this critical encounter.
The stakes are high for Nigeria as they look to bounce back from a disappointing loss to Benin just three months ago in a 2026 World Cup qualifier. That match saw Benin, coached by former Nigeria boss Gernot Rohr, secure a 2-1 victory that sent shockwaves through Nigerian football. Rohr, who had previously spent five years at the helm of the Super Eagles before being dismissed amid growing dissatisfaction, orchestrated a well-deserved win for the Benin Cheetahs, with goals from Jodel Dossou and Steve Mounie.
The defeat was particularly bitter for Nigeria, as it not only highlighted the team’s vulnerabilities but also marked the end of Finidi George’s brief tenure as head coach. George, a former Nigerian international star, was relieved of his duties after just four matches in charge, prompting the Nigeria Football Federation to turn to Eguavoen for a temporary solution.
Now, with Eguavoen at the helm, Nigeria is focused on restoring its dominance in African football, beginning with this AFCON qualifier. The Super Eagles, who finished as runners-up to Ivory Coast in the 2024 AFCON final, boast a squad brimming with attacking talent. Among the key players available for selection are Victor Osimhen, the reigning African Footballer of the Year, as well as Victor Boniface and Ademola Lookman. These stars will be expected to lead the charge as Nigeria seeks to make a strong start in the Group D clash set to take place in Uyo.
The match against Benin is not just about securing three points; it is also about re-establishing Nigeria’s reputation as a football powerhouse on the continent. The Super Eagles have a storied history in the AFCON, and with a squad as talented as this one, expectations are high that they can once again challenge for the title.
As the AFCON qualifiers kick off, several other high-profile matches are set to capture the attention of football fans across the continent. Here’s a look at some of the key fixtures:
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Cameroon vs. Namibia
In Group J, Cameroon is set to face Namibia, but the lead-up to the match has been marred by a dispute between the Cameroon sports ministry and the Samuel Eto’o-led national football federation. Originally scheduled to be played in Douala, the ministry decided to move the match to Yaounde, only for Eto’o to insist that it be held in Garoua. This disagreement has strained relations between government and football authorities, adding an extra layer of tension to the fixture.
Egypt vs. Cape Verde
Seven-time AFCON champions Egypt will be looking to redeem themselves after a disappointing exit in the 2024 tournament, where they were knocked out by the Democratic Republic of Congo in the last 16. Mohamed Salah, who missed part of the competition due to injury, is eager to lead Egypt to victory in their Group C opener against Cape Verde. Despite enjoying home advantage, Egypt will need to be cautious, as Cape Verde has proven to be a resilient opponent in the past.
Ivory Coast vs. Zambia
Reigning AFCON champions Ivory Coast will be without star striker Sebastien Haller, who is finalizing a transfer from Borussia Dortmund to Leganes. Coach Emerse Fae acknowledges the challenge posed by Zambia, a team that provided stiff competition during the previous qualifying campaign. Zambia, who have qualified for the last AFCON after missing three consecutive tournaments, will also be without forward Patson Daka, who is sidelined with an injury.
Morocco vs. Gabon
Although Morocco has already secured their place in the 2025 AFCON as the host nation, they have chosen to compete in Group B to maintain match sharpness. Coach Walid Regragui has a wealth of attacking options at his disposal, including Soufiane Rahimi, who made history at the 2024 Paris Olympics by scoring in six consecutive matches. Morocco will be looking to build momentum as they prepare to host the tournament.
South Africa vs. Uganda
South Africa, fresh from a third-place finish at the 2024 AFCON, will be without their injured captain and goalkeeper Ronwen Williams for their Group K encounter in Soweto. Forward Percy Tau is also absent, amid speculation that he may leave Al Ahly for Wydad Casablanca. Uganda’s preparations have been bolstered by former goalkeeper Denis Onyango, who has extensive experience in South African football.
As Nigeria and their Group D rivals gear up for the start of their AFCON qualifying campaign, the road to the 2025 tournament promises to be filled with excitement and drama. For the Super Eagles, Wednesday’s match against Benin is not just about qualification—it’s about reclaiming their place at the top of African football.
