Afrigather Few managers have the distinctive knack for moving into troublesome conditions and providing stability like Austin Eguavoen.
Repeatedly, the previous Nigeria captain has been the go-to man for the Tremendous Eagles throughout turbulent intervals, and as soon as once more, he answered the decision when Nigeria wanted him.
With 4 factors out of a potential six within the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, Eguavoen’s return to the touchline has been met with blended feelings.
Towards Rwanda, nevertheless, he confirmed each his tactical strengths and a few areas of concern.
Right here, we have a look at three issues he did proper and two he may have dealt with higher.
What Eguavoen Did Proper
Tactical Flexibility in Squad Rotation
Eguavoen’s determination to rotate the squad was each daring and tactical.
Dropping key gamers like Victor Osimhen to the bench to begin Victor Boniface who has had a greater preseason preparation together with his membership exhibits Eguavoen will not be afraid to make the robust calls.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru was additionally given the nod over Alex Iwobi as Evuavoen seemed to strive one thing completely different in Kigali.
Whereas this transfer could elevate eyebrows, it was a transparent sign that Eguavoen understands the significance of squad depth, significantly when video games come thick and quick.
The interim coach additionally confirmed good squad administration as solely three outfield gamers – Iheanacho, Tanimu, and Yusuf – didn’t play a minute of soccer over the 2 video games.
Defensive Solidity
Regardless of some issues surrounding Nigeria’s lack of midfield creativity, the Tremendous Eagles stored a clear sheet in opposition to Rwanda.
That’s the second consecutive clear sheet for the Tremendous Eagles underneath Eguavoen, an enchancment on the workforce’s poor file of zero clear sheets in 4 video games underneath Finidi George.
The backline, led by William Troost-Ekong and strengthened by the stable presence of Semi Ajayi and Calvin Bassey, stayed compact and denied Rwanda any clear goal-scoring alternatives.
Eguavoen’s emphasis on defensive construction ensured that even when the workforce wasn’t firing up entrance, they remained resilient on the again.
Efficient Use of Substitutions
Recognizing that the primary half lacked the required sharpness in assault, Eguavoen made key substitutions early within the second half, bringing on Osimhen and Moses Simon.
This variation injected power into the workforce and almost paid off. Osimhen’s presence instantly created issues for Rwanda’s protection, and Simon’s tempo on the flank supplied an extra outlet.
These subs virtually turned the tide in Nigeria’s favour, displaying that Eguavoen wasn’t afraid to change his strategy when issues weren’t working.
The place Eguavoen Fell Quick
Midfield Creativity
Whereas Nigeria created a number of probabilities, the Tremendous Eagles lacked actual creativity in midfield.
Wilfred Ndidi, sometimes dependable, seemed drained and struggled to supply the form of forward-thinking play wanted to unlock the Rwandan protection.
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, who was given the nod forward of Alex Iwobi, had a couple of shiny moments however couldn’t replicate Iwobi’s imaginative and prescient and skill to hold the ball by way of midfield.
Eguavoen’s determination to bench Iwobi from the beginning left Nigeria missing the inventive spark wanted to interrupt down a resilient Rwandan facet.
Inconsistent Urgent
Whereas Eguavoen’s high-pressing recreation labored wonders in opposition to Benin, it was much less efficient in opposition to Rwanda.
Nigeria pressed in bursts however lacked the consistency to maintain stress all through the match.
This allowed Rwanda to develop into the sport, significantly within the second half, after they managed extra possession. The disjointed press additionally left gaps in midfield, which the Rwandans often exploited.
The Tremendous Eagles’ incapacity to press cohesively and win the ball excessive up the pitch was a missed alternative to dominate a technically inferior opponent
Remaining Ideas
Within the grand scheme of issues, a goalless draw away from house in opposition to Rwanda isn’t a disastrous end result for Nigeria.
Eguavoen’s return has been marked by stable defensive shows and a few intelligent recreation administration.
Nonetheless, the shortage of creativity in midfield and gradual transitions spotlight areas that want pressing consideration.
The Tremendous Eagles boss should discover a strategy to deliver out one of the best in his attacking gamers whereas making certain that his workforce controls the tempo of video games from begin to end.
For now, the 4 factors from six present a stable basis, however there’s nonetheless a lot work to be accomplished if Nigeria is to safe their place at AFCON and past.
With Eguavoen on the helm, there’s cautious optimism, however solely time will inform if he’s the person to information the Tremendous Eagles to the promised land.
