Follow Us on Google
•Ikpeba slams Super Eagles defence
Former African Footballer of the Year, Victor Ikpeba, has slammed the Super Eagles for defending poorly as the Eric Chelle-led side fell 3-0 away to Guinea-Bissau in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
Ikpeba, speaking on Supersports immediately after the encounter said the players lacked the fighting spirit the Eagles are known for, and wondered why there is so much dependence on foreign-based players.
The Eagles conceded in each half at the 24 September Stadium in Bissau on Tuesday. Franculino Djú, Mama Baldé and Álvaro Djaló got the goals, which dented Nigeria’s AFCON qualification bid.
Chelle made several changes from the slim win over Madagascar. Taiwo Awoniyi started up front ahead of George Ilenikhena, Frank Onyeka came into midfield, and Bright Osayi-Samuel was preferred to Ola Aina at right back.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali had to clear the defensive lines early on. The hosts took the lead in the 15th minute when Djú created space on the edge of the box and curled into the bottom far corner, with Nwabali rooted to the spot.
Other News
Nwabali kept out a second with a low save, but could not stop the hosts doubling their lead in the 66th minute. Baldé beat Osayi-Samuel into the box and slotted into the bottom corner.
Nigeria kept looking for a way back but were undone deep in added time, when Djaló danced into the penalty area and slotted home.
It is only the second time the Djurtus have beaten the Eagles in AFCON qualifiers, after their shock win in Abuja in 2023. It is their second-ever victory in five meetings.
Guinea-Bissau lead Group L with 6 points from two matches, while Nigeria are second with 3 points.
