Recently, one of the best footballing Nations in Africa have been falling short of expectations in most competitions, not only from home fans, but even those in Diaspora who stick out their guns to cheer their "Green white Green" National team to victory anytime occasion calls for that. After Nigeria got butted out at the 2018 African cup of Nations which took place in Egypt, fans have been battling to resuscitate interest for most Nigerian games irrespective of the level. Not just that, the recent elimination of the Golden eaglets at the ongoing FIFA U-17 world Cup in Brazil have also gone a long way to whittle down interest in most Nigerian games. It's gonna take some stellar performance from any national Cadre to reignite the fans interest, even if it's the flying Eagles at the ongoing African U-23 nations cup taking place in Egypt. However, it appears the Flying Eagles will have to be at the peak of their game when they come against South Africa in their last group match on Friday. A win against South Africa will see them qualify for the 2020 Olympics which will be taking place in Tokyo. They lost their first group B game against Ivory Coast, but a 3-1 win against Zambia on Tuesday have raised their hope of booking a spot at the Olympics. Nigerians are really bothered and we hope Imama Amapakabo's side will not falter.
Not A Convincing Win Against Zambia
Despite Nigeria coming from behind to claim a 3-1 victory against Zambia in their second group B match on Tuesday, there is still fear as regards how far the team will go if they eventually make it to the Olympics. Their performance wasn't impressive and fans fear they may not be able to conquer South Africa come Friday. The Nigeria U-23 side did not start off well in their Tuesday encounter against Zambia, and of course Zambia would have made them pay for their laxity, thanks to their Swift response after conceding the first goal. The match which took place at the Al-Salam stadium saw Patson Daka drew the first blood for the Chipolopolo. He netted the first goal of the game to put Zambia ahead in the 12th minute. But it was obvious they had stepped on the Lions tail, as Nigeria responded as swift as possible to level the scoreline four minutes later. Thanks to Orji Okonkwo's equaliser which kept the score at 1-1 before the break. The second started with Zambia really mounting pressure on Nigeria's back line. However, a second half goal by both Nwakali and Awoniyi was enough to put the game beyond the reach of Zambia. Despite the win, Nigeria's performance have left many with doubts. There was lack of build up and synergy between the midfield and attack. The Flying Eagles were most times seen trying to throw long balls towards a well marked Awoniyi. It's really disturbing and I trust Imama will talk to his boys to relax and build their attack from the back. Throwing unnecessary balls upfront for Awoniyi to struggle and make out something from it is not the best game plan and it shows lack of connection between the team. In addendum, I hope Nigeria wins South Africa on Friday, Goodluck Guys!
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