On February 15, 2022, Augustine Eguavoen, interim Technical Adviser of Nigeria’s Super Eagles, described the team’s abundance of talent as a “good headache” for any manager. Speaking during a virtual meeting with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and players, Eguavoen highlighted the competitive depth in the squad as they prepare for the crucial 2022 FIFA World Cup playoff against Ghana in March 2022.
A Wealth of Talent
Eguavoen’s optimism was bolstered by FIFA’s approval on February 10, 2022, for Leicester City forward Ademola Lookman to switch his international allegiance from England to Nigeria. Lookman, a versatile winger, joins an already stacked attacking lineup that includes Moses Simon, Samuel Kalu, Samuel Chukwueze, and captain Ahmed Musa. “Lookman’s addition intensifies the competition for a starting role,” Eguavoen noted, acknowledging that the 24-year-old, who contributed to England’s 2017 U-20 World Cup triumph, will need to earn his place.
The Super Eagles’ attacking options are further enriched by strikers like Victor Osimhen (Napoli), Odion Ighalo, Emmanuel Dennis, Taiwo Awoniyi, Paul Onuachu, Sodiq Umar, and Kelechi Iheanacho. This depth, particularly in attack, gives Eguavoen a robust pool to select from for the two-legged playoff against Ghana’s Black Stars, with the winner securing a spot at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Building on AFCON Momentum
Despite Nigeria’s Round of 16 exit at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) against Tunisia, Eguavoen’s team won plaudits for their dynamic style, a departure from the conservative approach under former coach Gernot Rohr, who was sacked in December 2021. The Super Eagles dominated their AFCON group, earning maximum points against Egypt, Sudan, and Guinea-Bissau, which restored fan confidence. “The pattern of football we played won the heart of Nigerians,” Eguavoen said, crediting the players’ discipline and commitment in Cameroon.
Eguavoen, a two-time World Cup participant as a player (1994 and 1998), is tasked with leading Nigeria to their seventh World Cup appearance. He expressed pride in the opportunity, stating, “It is always an honour to serve the country. I feel privileged to lead this group.” His coaching staff, bolstered by the addition of Emmanuel Amuneke, another 1994 World Cup veteran, along with assistants Salisu Yusuf, Joseph Yobo, and Alloy Agu, aims to harness the squad’s talent for the high-stakes playoff.
Preparing for Ghana
The Super Eagles face Ghana in a two-legged playoff, with the first leg on March 25, 2022, in Kumasi and the second on March 29 in Abuja. Eguavoen acknowledged the challenge, saying, “We have two tough games against Ghana, but I am not too worried because we have a squad that knows it’s a mountain we have to climb.” The team’s depth, he argued, is a strategic advantage, though selecting the starting lineup presents a “good headache.”
Ahmed Musa, the team captain, echoed Eguavoen’s call for support, urging the NFF to ensure a strong fan presence at Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja for the second leg. The combination of a talented squad, passionate fans, and a revitalized coaching staff positions Nigeria for a strong push to qualify for Qatar.
Critical Reflection
Eguavoen’s confidence in the squad’s depth is well-founded, given the array of Europe-based stars like Osimhen and Lookman, but it also underscores the pressure to make optimal selections. The failure to advance past Tunisia at AFCON highlighted tactical vulnerabilities, particularly in knockout scenarios, which Eguavoen must address against a resilient Ghana side. The NFF’s decision to retain Eguavoen over José Peseiro, whose contract talks collapsed, reflects trust in his ability to leverage local knowledge and player familiarity, but it also places immense responsibility on him to deliver.
The “good headache” of player selection could become a liability if cohesion is not achieved. Social media reactions praised Eguavoen’s leadership but urged tactical flexibility, with one fan noting, “We have the talent, but Eguavoen must get the balance right against Ghana.” The outcome of the playoff, which Nigeria ultimately lost on away goals after a 1-1 aggregate draw, suggests that while depth was an asset, execution and external factors like pitch conditions played a role in the disappointment.
Looking Ahead
Despite the eventual World Cup qualification failure, Eguavoen’s tenure in early 2022 revitalized the Super Eagles’ spirit and showcased their potential. The addition of players like Lookman and the retention of a strong coaching crew signal a bright future, provided the NFF addresses infrastructural and organizational challenges. Eguavoen’s “good headache” reflects Nigeria’s wealth of talent, but it also highlights the need for strategic clarity to translate potential into success on the global stage.
