Interim head coach of the Super Eagles, Augustine Eguavoen, has thrown down the gauntlet to Nigeria’s home-based national team players, urging them to seize the opportunity to secure a spot in the senior team.

Eguavoen’s comments come ahead of the crucial second-leg tie against Ghana’s Black Galaxies in the African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers. Following a lackluster goalless draw in Ghana, the Super Eagles B team will host their West African rivals at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo this Saturday. A victory would guarantee their participation in the 2025 CHAN tournament.

Speaking during a special Christmas edition of Sports Salsa on Kennis 104.1FM, Eguavoen highlighted the significance of CHAN as a platform for showcasing local talents from the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL).

“This is a golden opportunity for the boys to showcase their talent and even break into the senior national team,” Eguavoen shared. He revealed his recent conversations with NPFL coaches Daniel Ogunmodede and Fidelis Illechukwu, emphasizing the importance of promoting domestic league players.

Eguavoen also addressed the challenges of integrating home-based players into the Super Eagles, citing tight schedules and the high stakes of competitive fixtures. “The games have been delicate, and we couldn’t afford to take risks with players we hadn’t tested. But with CHAN, they can show what they’re made of,” he explained.

The former Super Eagles coach expressed confidence that the CHAN Eagles have what it takes to make a statement. “I’m optimistic. Maybe four or five of them can break into the senior team if they seize this moment. I’m sure they won’t take this opportunity lightly.”

As the Super Eagles B team prepares for this pivotal clash, fans and stakeholders alike will be watching closely, hoping for a victory that not only secures CHAN qualification but also paves the way for the next generation of Nigerian football stars.