By Tolulope Oguntimehin 

Expectations were soaring high ahead of Nigeria’s clash with the Mediterranean Knights of Libya, especially after the Super Eagles' stellar performances against the Cheetahs of Benin Republic and Amavubi of Rwanda. The team’s newfound confidence had raised hopes to unprecedented heights. However, after just twenty minutes, the optimism that had been rekindled by those recent victories began to fade. The disjointed play and lack of shots on target brought back painful memories of the uninspired performances under Gernot Rohr and José Peseiro—memories most Nigerians would rather forget.

It wasn’t for lack of effort that the Super Eagles struggled, but rather a change in formation that proved ineffective. Head coach Austin Eguavoen opted for a different tactical setup, especially to accommodate the in-form Moses Simon. The 3-4-3 formation, which had worked so well against Benin and Rwanda, seemed to provide less space for Simon, whose club form has been nothing short of impressive. To counter this, Eguavoen tweaked the system to a 4-3-3, hoping to unleash Simon’s potential. Unfortunately, this decision backfired.

Against Benin and Rwanda, the 3-4-3 formation had worked wonders, with a lineup that featured:

Goalkeeper: Nwakali
Defense: Ekong, Bassey, Ajayi
Midfield: Aina, Ndidi, Bruno, Iwobi
Attack: Lookman, Chukwueze, Boniface

This formation had led to a convincing three-goal display against Benin, a team that had troubled Nigeria in previous encounters. Even with just one personnel change against Rwanda—Fisayo Dele-Bashiru replacing Iwobi —the Super Eagles had created a wealth of chances, if not for an outstanding performance from Rwanda’s goalkeeper and a questionable referee decision. That match could have easily ended in a more dominant victory for Nigeria.

So why, after such impressive displays, did Eguavoen revert to a cautious 4-3-3 with two defensive midfielders? It seems the head coach, perhaps out of fear of squandering the opportunity given to him by the NFF, chose to play it safe. By doing so, he stifled the attacking prowess that the Super Eagles possess in abundance. If Eguavoen truly wants Nigerians to stand behind him, he must let go of this fear. He must trust in the potential of the players and return to the 3-4-3 formation, with only one holding midfielder to unlock the team’s creativity and give the forwards the freedom to attack.

This team is capable of reaching new heights—they cannot afford to regress. Eguavoen must be bold, embrace the attacking strength of the Super Eagles, and let them soar to their full potential. The Eagles must fly, and fly they will.