Victor Collins and Alhassan Yusuf Join Early as Nigeria Targets Crucial Draw Against Benin

The Super Eagles have opened their training camp in Abidjan ahead of a decisive Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 qualifier against Benin Republic, scheduled for November 14. Nigeria’s interim manager Augustine Eguavoen, back in action after a medical leave in Belgium, arrived on Sunday with his coaching team to prepare for the match that could secure Nigeria’s qualification.

The first players to arrive were Nasarawa United defender Victor Collins, the only home-based player in the 23-man squad, and New England Revolution midfielder Alhassan Yusuf. Both players joined the Super Eagles’ camp on Monday morning, with the remaining squad expected by the end of the day.

Victor Collins, making his national team debut, is a strategic addition by Eguavoen, who aims to reinforce Nigeria’s defense ahead of the crucial clash. The team, currently topping Group D with ten points, needs only a draw to guarantee their spot in the tournament set for Morocco in 2025. The Super Eagles’ lead in the group leaves them beyond the reach of Rwanda, their final qualifier opponent, if they secure even a single point against Benin.

Following Thursday’s match in Abidjan, the Super Eagles will head back to Nigeria, traveling by chartered flight to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Their last qualifier against Rwanda will be held at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on November 18, marking the end of their AFCON 2025 qualification journey.