Former Super Eagles defender Chikelue Iloenyosi has absolved Nigeria’s interim head coach Augustine Eguavoen of any blame for the team’s 2-1 defeat to Rwanda in their AFCON 2025 qualifier.
The Super Eagles, three-time AFCON champions, had already secured their place in the tournament in Morocco after a draw against the Republic of Benin.
As a result, the clash with Rwanda was seen as a mere formality, prompting Eguavoen to field a slightly weakened side.
Despite taking the lead in the 59th minute through Samuel Chukwueze, Nigeria conceded two quick goals to Ange Mutsinzi and Innocent Nshuti, allowing Thorsten Spittler’s Rwandan team to claim a historic victory — their first-ever win over Nigeria.
In an interview with Brila.net, Iloenyosi dismissed suggestions that Eguavoen was responsible for the loss, citing deeper issues within the team.
“Eguavoen has never been part of the problem. Even if you bring in someone like Mourinho to coach Nigeria, the team still lacks character,” Iloenyosi said.
“The pattern we played ( against Rwanda ), the boys didn’t position themselves well, no passion and character in the national team. Losing the game is not Eguavoen’s fault. Even if you bring in another coach, they will still lose that game.”
Nigeria have just three points from four games in their FIFA World Cup qualification group, trailing Rwanda, who are top with seven points.
The two sides are set to meet again during the March international break, where they will battle for crucial points as they aim to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
While Eguavoen faces mounting criticism, Iloenyosi’s remarks highlight systemic issues within the team that go beyond the coach’s influence, raising questions about the Super Eagles’ readiness for upcoming challenges.
