Super Eagles forward Taiwo Awoniyi remains upbeat that with support of fans the three-time African champions can defeat AFCON qualifier opponent Benin Republic; npflupdates.com reports.
The Super Eagles will start it’s 2025 AFCON qualifier against Gernot Rohr’s Cheetahs of Benin Republic on Saturday.
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Recall, Benin Republic beat Nigeria 2-1 in Abidjan earlier this year, during a world cup qualifier fixture.
And with the three-time African champions yet to win any competitive match since after the 2023 AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire, a lot is expected from the team by their teeming fans.
Speaking to the media ahead of the AFCON qualifier, Nottingham Forest marksman, canvassed for fans support.
According to the former Golden Eaglets forward, the players in the Super Eagles will have to prove a point.
What Awoniyi said about Super Eagles and their fans
“I think I just want to assure all Nigerians that they should be supportive, they should try to support us.
“I know it might not look like what they have wanted but one thing is sure, Super Eagles will always be Super Eagles but it is not just saying we are the Super Eagles, it is us proving a point that we are the Super Eagles,” Awoniyi said.
Similarly, Super Eagles interim manager Augustine Egueavoen, revealed the team is not out to revenge it’s lost against Benin Republic in June.
According to the former international, the team’s main objective is to beat it’s opponent and secure the maximum points.
“Starting with the match against Benin Republic on Saturday, nobody is mentioning anything about revenge,” Eguavoen said.
“Our goal is three points, and then we aim for another three points in Kigali on Tuesday that will put us in good stead for qualification.”
“It’s important we win because this is an important AFCON qualifier,” added Udinese Calcio goalkeeper Maduka Okoye.
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“We have to be at our best and play at our highest level.
“What is most important is the victory for the team and for Nigeria.”
