Super Eagles Of Nigeria Set For First Training Session Ahead Of Benin Clash

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set for their first training session at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan ahead of their highly anticipated Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against the Benin Republic on Thursday.

The Super Eagles are set to welcome Spain-based forward Sadiq Umar, rounding up a squad of 22 players.

Ahead of the training session, Coach Augustine Eguavoen shared his optimism about the team’s atmosphere, saying, “We have 22 players ready and only one more will join us on Wednesday morning. The environment here in Abidjan is fantastic, and we are all looking forward to a productive first training session as we prepare for the match.”

The team is bolstered by strong arrivals, including Captain William Ekong and reigning Africa Player of the Year Victor Osimhen. Ademola Lookman, defenders Bright Osayi-Samuel, Olaoluwa Aina, Victor Collins, Calvin Bassey, and midfielders Alex Iwobi and Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi have also joined, bringing a wealth of experience to the squad. Germany-based forward Victor Boniface, along with South Africa-based goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali touched down earlier today.

Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye, midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, and forward Kelechi Iheanacho have also arrived, alongside goalkeeper Amas Obasogie, defenders Gabriel Osho and Bruno Onyemaechi, midfielders Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Frank Onyeka, and Raphael Onyedika, as well as forwards Moses Simon and Samuel Chukwueze.

With 10 points from their first four matches and a perfect defensive record, the Super Eagles enter the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan with confidence. Previously, this venue has been a successful ground for them, where they delivered impressive performances in past tournaments, especially during the 2023 AFCON.

“Our familiarity with the stadium gives us a psychological advantage, and we aim to carry forward the positive experiences we’ve had here. Our focus is on preparing diligently for another successful outing on Thursday,” said Captain Ekong.

He acknowledged the challenge ahead, noting that the Benin side is also striving for a place in the finals. He, however, stressed: “Our objective is three points from this match.”

Note that the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has appointed Senegalese referee Issa Sy to oversee Thursday’s encounter, which kicks off at 7 PM CIV time (8 PM Nigeria time). His support team includes assistants Djibril Camara, Nouha Bangoura, and fourth official El Hadji Amadou Sy.