Captain William Ekong has praised the Super Eagles after their convincing 3-0 win over Benin in their opening 2025 AFCON qualifying match.
“We prepared to win the game, we respect Benin, the last time we played against them they won, so like I said we have great belief in our team, in our coach, who is like a family member that has returned to us now, and we knew we had to take responsibility,” Ekong said in a post-match interview.
Ekong attributed the team’s success to their preparation, respect for their opponents, and belief in their coach and teammates.
“Everybody knows we have good attacking talent, we don’t have to name them, but we played well, tried to keep the door shut at the back, we created chances to score, so I believe that if we gave the boys enough balls up front they would put it away.”
The Super Eagles dominated the game, with Ademola Lookman scoring twice and Victor Osimhen adding a third goal.
Ekong noted that the team’s attacking talent was on full display, and their defensive efforts kept Benin at bay. “Today is a good indication of the direction that we’re heading and the first step of many that we have to take to be back in action.”
READ MORE: Gernot Rohr reveals Super Eagles’ secret weapon against Benin Republic in AFCON qualifier
Ekong’s comments may have suggested that this win is just the beginning for the Super Eagles, indicating a positive direction for the team.
Victor osimhen and Ademola Lookman stole the show as Nigeria demolished Benin Republic to go top of group D
With their sights set on the 2025 AFCON, the team will look to build on this momentum in their upcoming matches against Rwanda and Libya.
The win has also garnered support for caretaker coach Augustine Eguavoen, who took charge of the team after a last-minute agreement with the Nigeria Football Federation.
Eguavoen’s tactics and team selection were praised by fans and pundits alike, and he will look to continue this winning streak in the team’s next match.
The Super Eagles’ performance has also highlighted the depth of talent in the squad, with players like Dele-Bashiru and Victor Boniface making significant contributions.
The team continues their qualifying campaign and they will face tougher opponents, but for now, they can celebrate a well-deserved win.
