The Super Eagles of Nigeria dedicate it’s win over the Sable Antelopes of Angola to late Playmaker Samuel Okwaraji npflupdates.com reports.
Samuel Okwaraji was a former Super Eagles player who was widely considered as the best Nigerian player of the late 80s.
Born in a South Eastern state in Nigeria, Samuel Okwaraji started playing football as a toddler; kicking any round object within his reach. He’d rise to become one of the best players of Nigerian extraction.
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Sadly he lost his life while playing for Nigeria against Angola in 1989; and it was during a game between the Super Eagles and the Sable Antelopes of Angola.
The three-time African champions defeated Angola today to reach its first ever AFCON semifinal in five years. They’re expected to face-off with the winner of the quarterfinal bout between Cape Verde and South Africa’s Bafana Bafana.
Super Eagles honour Samuel Okwaraji more than three decades after his demise
Reminiscing Samuel Okwaraji after the Angola game, the Super Eagles honored the late player; stressing that his sacrifice for the Green and White colours will never be forgotten.
“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”
In a related story, Super Eagles head coach, José Peseiro identifies the mistakes of the national team which would have cost them the AFCON semi-final ticket.
According to Peseiro, his players ought to be attacking and defending together at the same time. That way their collective efforts can yield a better result.
“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,” the former Sporting CP manager told reporters during a pre-match press conference.
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Similarly, Angola coach, Pedro Goncalves appreciated the Super Eagles; stressing that they’re a strong side and more efficient as well.
“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,” he told reporters.
