AFCON Qualifier: Augustine Eguavoen explains Taiwo Awoniyi limited playing time

By Saheed Afolabi

Nigeria head coach Augustine Eguavoen has explained Taiwo Awoniyi’s limited appearances for the national team, attributing them to the striker’s recent injury troubles.

The Nottingham Forest forward has struggled with fitness issues, which have affected his ability to secure a regular spot with the Super Eagles.

Eguavoen acknowledged that while Awoniyi had some playing time with Forest before joining the national team, his recent injury setbacks have limited his involvement.

The coach expressed his frustration with the selection process, noting the challenge of choosing from a pool of over 40 players to field the best 11.

“Awoniyi had a few minutes at his club before joining us,” Eguavoen said, as reported by Brila FM.

“We have 23 to 40 players to choose from, but only 11 can start. It’s frustrating, but the bonding is there, and everyone is on board.”

Despite these challenges, the Super Eagles are in a strong position in their 2025 AFCON qualifying campaign, topping their group with four points from two games.