Super Eagles interim manager Austin Eguavoen has directed a subtle message at winger Samuel Chukwueze as the Super Eagles prepare for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Libya.
With Nigeria eyeing a spot in the AFCON tournament, Eguavoen has highlighted the importance of adaptability and tactical discipline for his players.
The 1994 AFCON winner, who has recently guided Nigeria to positive results— a commanding 3-0 victory over Benin and a goalless draw against Rwanda— will look to continue this momentum in the two-legged tie against Libya.
Nigeria currently tops their group with four points, and securing victories in these matches would bring them closer to qualification.
Eguavoen urges tactical discipline from Super Eagles
Speaking to NFF TV, the 59-year-old emphasized the importance of tactical flexibility within the squad.
“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,” Eguavoen explained.
“I don't want rigid players. I want players who can express themselves, but we have a job to do. We have a formation, and we want to have balance at every given time.”
He also directed specific instructions to Chukwueze, a player known for his dribbling prowess. While acknowledging the winger's technical skill, Eguavoen urged him to be more selective with his dribbles and to focus on defensive duties when required.
“You can imagine Chukwueze coming to defence to help. He gets the ball, what does he do? Not dribble. We know how good he is when he has to dribble, but he should know where to dribble and where not to dribble.
“If [Chukwueze] comes in, he has to do his defensive duty. It's a responsibility, but he knows what to do.”
Nigeria’s first leg against Libya is set for Friday, October 11, in Uyo, with the return fixture scheduled for Tuesday, October 15, in Benghazi.
