Austin Eguavoen defends decision to snub in-form Dessers, Arokodare for Iheanacho, Awoniyi

Derin Ajayi
2 Min Read

Super Eagles interim coach, Austin Eguavoen, has explained his decision to call up strikers Kelechi Iheanacho and Taiwo Awoniyi instead of Cyriel Dessers and Tolu Arokodare.

Despite both Iheanacho and Awoniyi having a slow start to the season—playing for Sevilla in Spain and Nottingham Forest in England—they were among the seven forwards selected for Nigeria’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying doubleheader against Libya on October 11 in Uyo and October 15 in Tripoli.

Also read: Chidera Ejuke dribbles his way to Sevilla’s Player of the Month award

Austin Eguavoen defends decision to snub in-form Dessers, Arokodare for Iheanacho, Awoniyi

The call-up has sparked criticism from fans, as neither striker has scored for their respective teams this season after seven league matches. Iheanacho, who joined Sevilla over the summer, has failed to score in five appearances, while Awoniyi is still chasing his first goal of the season after four games.

Meanwhile, Arokodare has been in excellent form for Genk, scoring six goals in 10 league appearances and helping his team top the Belgian Pro League. Dessers has also impressed, netting seven goals and providing three assists in 13 matches across all competitions.

Despite their standout performances, Eguavoen defended his choice, emphasizing Iheanacho’s experience with the national team.

Austin Eguavoen defends decision to snub in-form Dessers, Arokodare for Iheanacho, Awoniyi
Tolu Arokodare

“I decided to include Kelechi Iheanacho when it became clear that Victor Osimhen would not be fit in time,” Eguavoen said. “I looked at both Cyriel Dessers and Tolu Arokodare, but opted for Iheanacho this time because he is the more experienced striker.”

While Dessers has been involved with the national team, he hasn’t yet established himself as a key player, and Arokodare is still awaiting his first call-up.

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