Eguavoen Hints at Super Eagles Call-Ups for Dessers and Akpom
Interim Super Eagles coach Austine Eguavoen has hinted at expanding the team’s player pool for future matches, singling out Cyriel Dessers of Rangers and Ajax forward Chuba Akpom as potential inclusions in 2024, Nigeriasoccernet.com can report.
Eguavoen made this revelation while addressing questions about the team’s selection process following their mixed results in the final matches of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers. Nigeria secured a 1-1 draw against Benin Republic but fell to a 1-2 defeat against Rwanda.
Broader Context on the Players
Cyriel Dessers, notably absent from the recent squad list, has been in fine form, scoring 10 goals in 20 appearances this season. The 29-year-old striker, who boasts six caps and two goals for Nigeria, had been widely expected to earn a call-up. Meanwhile, Chuba Akpom, who committed to representing Nigeria three years ago after playing for England’s youth teams, is yet to make his senior debut. Akpom has been making strides in the Eredivisie with Ajax, tallying six goals in 18 games this season.
Eguavoen’s Strategic Vision
Eguavoen emphasized his desire to expand the team’s options, especially to build a squad capable of adapting to any challenges. Speaking to reporters, he explained the rationale behind the current roster and his plans for integrating new players:
“We have had only three, four days for these matches, so the time is not there to look closer at new players. But I want to improve our large pool of players so that we could have capable replacements.”
Eguavoen acknowledged the high expectations of Nigerian fans but called for patience as the team builds towards long-term stability. He indicated that friendlies in the coming year would provide opportunities to assess talents like Dessers and Akpom:
“We should be patient. When we have friendlies, we will try to bring some new players like Cyriel Dessers and Chuba Akpom and work with them.”
Next Steps for the Super Eagles
Eguavoen’s strategy reflects a pragmatic approach to team development, balancing immediate performance with the integration of emerging talents. With both players performing at a high level in Europe, their inclusion could strengthen Nigeria’s attacking options as the team prepares for key international fixtures in 2024.
This focus on nurturing a diverse and competitive squad underscores Eguavoen’s broader vision for Nigerian football, aiming to build a team that excels not just in AFCON but on the global stage.
Oluwayemi Omolagba
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