No doubt, this international break has been friendly to Nigeria. They came into this break knowing that they needed to qualifier for next year’s AFCON and boy did they do to devastating effect. They faced South Africa in their first game, and it would have been entertaining to see the outcome of that match. The super eagles knew that only a draw was needed to qualify and they went for that. The early goal made it hard for Bafana Bafana to come back to win. They were no doubt happy with that result, and now, there comes something more relaxing than a qualifier’s match; Nigeria against Uganda.
Uganda would be hoping that this game is much easier for them as Nigeria would still be celebrating from qualifying. However, they would know that the super eagles have a fan base which is always hungry for more success. The match is set to be played at the Asaba Stadium in Nigeria. Nigeria’s form in recent times is quite decent. Their last loss came in the World cup against Argentina, and their result has propelled them to better things. Uganda’s record is quite poor, but they would be hoping to get over it to ensure that this match turns out to be a success for them.
However, Nigeria would have to cope without having a few players at their disposal. One of such player is Leon Balogun. It is believed that he had picked up a slight knock after the match which has made him withdraw from the squad. He is set to return to England where he plays for Brighton and Hove Albion in the premier league. He would return from South Africa. Apart from this, there are no emergency absentees. Ighalo is expected to sit this one out as he has a knock while other players such as Onazi and Ndidi would also have to sit this out. Rohr is expected to reshuffle his squad ahead of the game to ensure that most people in the team get enough playing time. Uganda, on the other hand, would be expected to start with their regular playing squad as they would be itching to claim at least a draw from one of the giants of Africa when it comes to football.
Nigeria would be going into this match looking to improve their record. It is to be remembered that the beginning of Rohr's reign was filled with a lot of optimism as the super eagles did not lose a game for a very long period. They would be hoping that their quality comes to the fore here so that they would get one over the Ugandans. Uganda would be hoping that energy and passion would triumph over quality in football as it often happens. However, that may just prove to be too far a task for them.
Everything shall be revealed when the two teams take to the pitch on that day.
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