Victor in action against Cameroon
Super Eagles forward, Victor Osimhen, replies critics after the three-time African champions secured a 2023 AFCON semifinal ticket, npflupdates.com reports.
Osimhen and his Super Eagles teammates were never given a chance of making it to the 2023 Africa Cup Of Nations (AFCON) semi-final.
Also read: Samuel Okwaraji : “You’ll Never Be Forgotten” Super Eagles Reminisce On Dedication Of Late Playmaker
But, with victory over perennial rivals Angola, the national team has secured a semifinal ticket. Where they’re expected to clash with winners from South Africa and Cape Verde quarter-final clash.
Osimhen reply critics after clinching semi-final ticket
Osimhen who’s come under criticism from fans for lack of goals at the biennial tournament after the Angola game took to his Instagram handle to make a post.
According to the former VFL Wolfsburg forward, to talk is cheap; and it will only take him(and his colleagues) a fair playing turf to express themselves and qualities.
“Talk is Cheap!!! Na on top field we go dig am, congratulations to the team. Unto the next one. Respect to the Angola team,” the former Olympique Lille forward posted on his Instagram story.
In a related story, the Super reminisces on the demise of legend Samuel Okwaraji. Okwaraji slumped and died while playing against Angola in 1989.
So, the three-time African champions reminisced that the players efforts and contribution to Nigeria’s football can never be in vain.
“Today’s victory over Angola is a poignant reminder of the adamant spirit of Nigerian football. 🇳🇬⚽️ As we celebrate this triumph, we also honor the memory of Late Samuel Sochukwuma Okwaraji, who tragically left us while playing against Angola 35 years ago. His passion for the game and sacrifice will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Samuel Okwaraji, your legacy lives on. #WeRememberOkwaraji #RIP,” a post on verified Super Eagles X handle read.
Coach José Peseiro, identified the mistake by players that nearly led to an Angola equizer. According to the 63-year-old, misykaesyfro. The midfield gave away the goal-scoring opportunity to the Sable Antelopes of Angola (though it wasn’t converted).
“We did well in the first half, counter-attacking a lot, and putting #Angola under pressure… In the second half, they came to attack us and we had some difficult moments… @NwabaliBobo made two saves… I want my teams to attack and defend together… Mistakes from the middle caused the clear chance that Angola had,” Peseiro said.
In the same way Pedro Goncalves, Angola coach appreciated Nigeria for their quality and strength. According to the tactician, Nigeria was a more efficient side.
Also read: Important Osimhen Will Score Goals Against Cameroon In The R16 – Peseiro
“I would like to congratulate the #Nigerian team. They have a very strong squad. It was a demanding game… Trying to mourn about this defeat is not a good attitude to have… Our strikers didn’t perform. #Nigeria were more efficient,” Mr. Pedro told the media during a pre-match press conference.
