As Nigeria gears up for their final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, interim coach Austin Eguavoen has come under scrutiny for his decision to omit in-form strikers Cyriel Dessers and Tolu Arokodare from the Super Eagles squad. Despite their combined 18 goals this season—Dessers with 10 for Rangers and Arokodare netting eight for KRC Genk—the duo remain on the sidelines.

Instead, Eguavoen stuck with familiar names like Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, and Kelechi Iheanacho, while also recalling Real Sociedad’s Umar Sadiq. The inclusion of Osimhen and Boniface was widely praised given their outstanding performances, but Iheanacho and Sadiq’s selection sparked debate.

Iheanacho, who plays for Sevilla, has yet to score in La Liga this season but boasts two Copa del Rey goals. Sadiq, on the other hand, has struggled for game time and remains goalless across all competitions. The decision seemed questionable when Iheanacho was substituted at halftime during the 1-0 win over Benin after failing to impress, while Sadiq was left on the bench entirely.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of Nigeria’s clash with Rwanda, Eguavoen addressed the backlash. He cited his preference for players he has previously worked with, explaining that familiarity in tight international windows often takes precedence over form.

“These games come three to four days in between, so I stick to people I have worked with in the past,” Eguavoen said. “When the opportunity comes, the national team belongs to everyone. Dessers and Arokodare will get their chance, but right now, I focus on those I know well.”

While Dessers has earned six caps for Nigeria, he is yet to feature under Eguavoen, while Arokodare still awaits his debut. Interestingly, Boniface is the only forward in the squad without prior experience under the caretaker coach, raising questions about Eguavoen’s criteria.

For now, Eguavoen insists the door remains open for the duo, urging fans to trust his decisions as he works toward securing Nigeria’s place in AFCON 2025.