AFCON 2025 qualifying draw groups Nigeria with Benin and Rwanda. Benin's coach Gernot Rohr is confident of beating Nigeria again. Rwanda's coach notes familiar opponents. Qualifiers start in September. Group dynamics promise competitive matches as teams vie for AFCON 2025 spots.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying draw has sparked reactions from coaches of Nigeria's group opponents. Benin Republic and Rwanda find themselves alongside the Super Eagles in what promises to be a competitive qualifying campaign.
Gernot Rohr, Benin's head coach and former Nigeria manager, expressed confidence in his team's ability to challenge the Super Eagles. Recalling Benin's recent 2-1 victory over Nigeria in a World Cup qualifier, Rohr believes his squad can replicate that success. However, he acknowledged the overall difficulty of the group, which also includes Libya.
Rwanda's coach, Torsten Frank Spitller, voiced some disappointment at being drawn with familiar opponents. Both Nigeria and Benin are also in Rwanda's World Cup qualifying group, creating a sense of déjà vu for Spitller's team.
The inclusion of Nigeria, a three-time AFCON champion, adds significant weight to the group. Their presence will likely raise the competitive level and media attention throughout the qualifiers.
As the teams prepare for the qualifying matches set to begin in September, each nation will be strategizing to secure one of the coveted spots in the 2025 AFCON tournament. The Super Eagles, despite recent setbacks, remain favorites but can expect stiff competition from their group rivals.
This qualifying campaign could prove crucial for all teams involved, potentially shaping their football trajectories beyond the immediate goal of AFCON qualification. With experienced coaches at the helm and recent history adding spice to the matchups, football fans can anticipate an exciting series of qualifiers in this group.
