Austin Eguavoen, currently serving as the interim manager of the Super Eagles, has communicated a distinct and important message to winger Samuel Chukwueze in light of the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Libya.
Eguavoen has recently guided the team to commendable performances, achieving a decisive 3-0 victory over Benin and managing to secure a goalless draw against Rwanda.
These results have been pivotal, as they place the Super Eagles at the top of their qualifying group, currently holding four points.
As the team gears up for the crucial matches against Libya, Eguavoen is keen on preserving this positive momentum, which is essential for their aspirations to qualify for the AFCON tournament.
The significance of the upcoming encounters cannot be overstated; victories against Libya would greatly enhance Nigeria’s chances of securing a spot in the prestigious tournament.
In preparation for these critical matches, Eguavoen has made it clear that he values versatility in his players.
He seeks individuals capable of adapting to various roles on the field, which is crucial for the overall functionality and effectiveness of the team.
Eguavoen underscored the necessity for players to fully grasp their roles and responsibilities within the team’s strategic framework.
He stated, “I am a coach who likes players who can play more than one position. If you can play more than one position, you’re game with me.”
This emphasis on flexibility highlights Eguavoen’s desire for a dynamic squad that can respond to different situations during matches.
Moreover, he expressed his aversion to having rigid players within the team. “I don’t want rigid players, I want players who can express themselves but we have a job to do, we have formation which we want to have balance at every given time.”
This insistence on balance is crucial; Eguavoen believes that when players understand their positions and responsibilities, they can effectively contribute to the team’s success regardless of where they find themselves on the pitch.
“When we have that balance, wherever you find yourself in the field of play, do the job, but you must know what you have to do when you’re in that position,” he added.
Specifically addressing Chukwueze, Eguavoen has urged the talented winger to make judicious decisions during games, especially concerning his dribbling.
While Eguavoen recognizes Chukwueze’s exceptional ability to maneuver with the ball, he stresses the importance of exercising discretion and recognizing the appropriate moments to utilize his dribbling skills.
“You can imagine Chukwueze come to defence to help, he gets the ball, what does he do, not dribble,” Eguavoen remarked. He further elaborated, “We know how good he is when he has to dribble but he should know where to dribble, he should know where not to dribble.”
Eguavoen emphasized that when Chukwueze participates in defensive duties, he must prioritize these responsibilities over individual flair.
“If he comes in he has to do his defensive duty. It’s a responsibility but he knows what to do, so these are things we go through every now and then.”
This approach not only reinforces team discipline but also aligns with Eguavoen’s overall vision for a cohesive and effective squad.
The Super Eagles are scheduled to face Libya in a highly anticipated match in Uyo on Friday, October 11. A return fixture is planned for Tuesday, October 15, at the Martyrs of Benina Stadium in Benghazi.
As the team prepares for these vital encounters, Eguavoen’s message serves as a crucial reminder to all players about the significance of discipline, tactical awareness, and teamwork as they strive for their goals in the AFCON qualifiers.
The upcoming matches present a critical opportunity for the Super Eagles to solidify their position and demonstrate their capabilities on the continental stage.
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