Super Eagles interim coach Augustine Eguavoen has explained the challenges that led to Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with Gernot Rohr’s Benin Republic.

Following an 81st-minute equalizer by Napoli-owned forward, Victor Osimhen, the Super Eagles secured their place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a game to spare.

The match, held at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium, began on a challenging note for Nigeria, with the home side taking an early lead through Mohamed Tijani’s first-half goal.

The wet, rainy conditions made play difficult, which tested the resilience of the 2013 AFCON champions as they worked to overturn the deficit before the end of the first half.

Reflecting on the performance, Coach Eguavoen, pinned the first half loss on the downpour, but credited his players for their perseverance, particularly in the second half.

“It was a tough game, and I congratulate the players for a spirited display in the second half that earned us the equaliser,” Eguavoen remarked. “The downpour made the game difficult for both teams, but I am happy we have the AFCON finals ticket in the bag ahead of the final game of the series against Rwanda in Uyo on Monday.”

With 11 points from their qualifying campaign, the Super Eagles have secured their ticket to AFCON 2025 in Morocco. The draw leaves Eguavoen’s side in a strong position as they prepare to close their qualification series with a home fixture against Rwanda.

For the three-time AFCON Champions, the focus now shifts to their last game in Uyo, where they’ll look to finish their qualifiers on a high note, with AFCON qualification already sealed.