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Benedict Akwuegbu Backs Super Eagles for AFCON Glory, Urges Tactical Variety
Former Nigeria striker Benedict Akwuegbu has expressed strong belief that the Super Eagles possess the quality needed to win the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as they begin their Group C campaign on Tuesday.
Nigeria, three-time AFCON champions, are targeting a fourth continental crown after finishing runners-up at the last tournament, where they lost 2–1 to hosts Ivory Coast in the final. The Super Eagles previously lifted the trophy in 1980, 1994, and 2013.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa, Akwuegbu said confidence and collective support will be crucial to Nigeria’s title push.
“I’m optimistic that the team will excel; we just need to keep hope alive,” Akwuegbu told Footy-Africa. “We must continue to support the NFF and the entire team. We have the players and the quality needed to win the tournament.”
Nigeria open their Group C campaign against Tanzania at the Complex Sportif de Fès, with the Taifa Stars expected to focus on limiting the influence of Napoli striker Victor Osimhen.
Tanzania head coach Miguel Gamondi has already revealed his side’s intent to neutralise Nigeria’s attacking threats.
“We have a tactical plan to try to neutralise Victor Osimhen,” Gamondi said. “But it’s not only him; you also have players like Chukwueze and Lookman. If one is neutralised, another can attack.”
Reacting to those comments, Akwuegbu warned against over-reliance on Osimhen and advised Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle to diversify Nigeria’s attacking approach.
“My only advice to the coach is to adopt more varied tactics and a different style of play,” Akwuegbu added. “The team relies too heavily on Osimhen, and whenever he doesn’t play or score, the team tends to struggle. Many teams now understand our approach and will focus on marking Osimhen and Lookman out of the game.
“It’s important to develop a system where goals can come from any player and where there are multiple match winners. That’s an area the team currently lacks,” he concluded.
After Tuesday’s clash with Tanzania, Nigeria will face Tunisia on 27 December before wrapping up their group-stage fixtures against Uganda on 30 December, as they chase a place in the knockout rounds and a potential return to continental glory.
