The Super Eagles’ journey in their final AFCON 2025 qualifiers ended on a sour note after a shocking 2-1 loss to Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo. Despite an early lead in the 59th minute, Augustine Eguavoen’s men failed to hold their ground, allowing the Wasps to secure their first-ever win against Nigeria.

Former Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr, now leading the Republic of Benin, shed light on what he believes is a recurring issue with Nigeria’s team. Speaking after his Benin side’s 1-1 draw with Nigeria in Ivory Coast a week earlier, Rohr highlighted the team’s tendency to ease off when they feel assured of qualification.

“I know this team very well, having coached them,” Rohr said in comments reported by Brila FM. “They sometimes take their foot off the gas when they think the job is done. This gives opponents the chance to capitalize, as Rwanda did.”

Rohr’s Benin also qualified for the AFCON 2025 tournament alongside Nigeria, with both teams set for a high-stakes FIFA World Cup qualifier rematch in October 2025.

Rohr, who led Nigeria to the 2018 FIFA World Cup and a bronze medal at AFCON 2019, has witnessed both the heights and pitfalls of this team. His remarks offer food for thought as the Super Eagles prepare for tougher challenges in upcoming tournaments.