The Super Eagles of Nigeria earns first win since after the 2023 AFCON final loss to Ivory Coast; npflupdates.com reports.
The Super Eagles defeated the Black Stars of Ghana at the Stade de Marrakech on Friday evening. And that is its first winning since losing out on the 2023 Africa Cup Of Nations (AFCON) title.
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It wasn’t an easy outing against a rejuvenated Ghanaian side, who at some point in the second half dominated most of the possessions.
A first half spot-kick from Glasgow Rangers Cyriel Dessers was the only difference in the first period. Though the opposition mounted serious pressure on the Nigerian defense, and created some goal-scoring chances.
Atalanta Bergamasca winger, Ademola Lookman, doubled the Super Eagles lead shortly after the Ghanaians were reduced to 10 men.
The Black Stars would later get a consolation goal from the spot.
Two important things can be taken away from the fixture
(1) Tactics of Super Eagles interim manager, Finidi George works like magic. The three-time African champions no longer employ defensive tactics like in the days of José Peseiro. They currently play a possessive type of football where they’d hold onto possessions and also takes opposition on counterattack.
(2) Newcomer Benjamin Tanimu officially makes his debut for the Super Eagles. Recall, he was part of the Eagles team that played against Mexico few months ago.
Also, forward Cyriel Dessers, marks his return to the national the with a goal. The forward has endured a lengthy spell away from the Super Eagles. But after regaining form at his club, he was handed an invitation.
“I am a very ambitious person and I won’t lie | felt really hurt when I missed out on a spot in the team for the AFCON,” Dessers said while reacting to his call-up.
“But now that l am here making the best of it is what matters most. It’s not easy getting to play for Nigeria because of the options available but when an opening like this happens then you have to be ready to take it.
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“It’s my turn to prove a point”, the 29 year old who has four caps and one goal for Nigeria added.
Nigeria will now play against Mali in four days time. And a win for Finidi George will indeed propel his application for a permanent Super Eagles coaching job to a new pedestal.
