by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 15, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Nigeria, Soccer
William Troost-Ekong offered insight into Nigeria’s tactical adjustments following their 1-1 draw against Gernot Rohr’s Benin in a crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier held at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium in Abidjan.
The Super Eagles faced adversity early, conceding a goal in the 16th minute, and struggled to break down a resolute Benin defense. With Nigeria trailing, interim coach Augustine Eguavoen made a significant change in the second half, introducing Bayer Leverkusen forward Victor Boniface in the 72nd minute to partner Victor Osimhen in attack.
Speaking to reporters after the match, Troost-Ekong explained the rationale behind the substitution. “The coach saw the need for a change at halftime, and we adjusted the formation slightly. Later, as Benin dropped deeper, defending with five or six players, we needed another player to create space for Osimhen,” he said.
Osimhen, fresh off a strong run of form at Galatasaray, returned to the starting lineup after missing earlier qualifiers due to his well-documented struggles at Napoli and fitness issues. However, Boniface, who had started in Osimhen’s absence, provided a fresh dynamic off the bench.
“Boniface is the kind of player who draws defenders out and opens up space,” Troost-Ekong added. “It worked well today. Both of them complement each other, and their partnership showed promise.”
The adjustment paid off in the 81st minute when Moses Simon, another substitute, delivered a pinpoint cross that Osimhen headed into the net, securing Nigeria a crucial point. The goal marked Osimhen’s 23rd for the Super Eagles in 38 appearances, further solidifying his status as one of Africa’s top strikers.
Reflecting on the result, Troost-Ekong expressed confidence in the team’s depth and adaptability. “We have so many players with different qualities. It’s about finding the right combination. If we had played a bit longer, I believe we could have scored again,” the captain concluded.
With the draw, Nigeria remains in contention for a place in the 2025 AFCON, showcasing their resilience and depth ahead of the tournament.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 15, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Milson capitalizes on poor defending to set up a crucial goal
Ghana’s defensive frailties were laid bare in the second half of a tense encounter when Milson delivered a perfectly-timed assist for Zini to score the equalizer in the 63rd minute.
The moment came after Ghana struggled to maintain their lead, with miscommunication and gaps at the back allowing Milson to exploit the space and provide a decisive pass. Zini, unmarked, slotted the ball past the keeper to level the game, leaving the Ghanaian defense in disarray.
The equalizer shifted momentum, highlighting the need for stronger defensive organization as Ghana faced increased pressure from their opponents in the final stages of the match.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 15, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Atalanta’s Nigerian talisman draws global attention after stellar performances
Ademola Lookman’s rise to prominence in Serie A continues to capture headlines, with Atalanta reportedly setting a €50 million asking price for the in-form striker, according to Il Corriere dello Sport.
The 27-year-old Nigeria international has enjoyed a scintillating start to the season, amassing eight goals and five assists in just 14 appearances across all competitions. Lookman, who joined Atalanta from RB Leipzig in 2022 for a modest €9.3 million, has seen his value skyrocket after consistently delivering match-winning performances.
This summer, the forward attracted interest from Paris Saint-Germain, but Atalanta successfully convinced him to remain in Bergamo. The Serie A club appears keen to keep their prized asset, with his contract running until June 2026 and an option to extend for another year, potentially increasing his annual salary to €2 million.
Lookman’s brilliance was on full display last season when he spearheaded Atalanta’s Europa League triumph, netting a hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen. His achievements also earned him a 14th-place finish in the 2024 Ballon d’Or rankings.
Atalanta, in a strong financial position, is not inclined to part with Lookman during the January transfer window. However, they are reportedly open to entertaining offers in the summer, provided clubs meet the €50 million valuation.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 15, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Nigeria, Soccer
Ola Aina’s sudden departure from the Super Eagles camp has raised questions about his fitness as the defender returned to Nottingham Forest ahead of Nigeria’s inconsequential AFCON qualifier against Rwanda.
The incident unfolded shortly after a video surfaced showing Aina interacting with teammates Ademola Lookman and Calvin Bassey. In the clip, recorded by Alex Iwobi en route to the Super Eagles camp, Aina could be heard saying, “I am not doing well, sir. I am not doing fine.” This comment quickly fueled speculation about a possible injury.
Despite his apparent discomfort, Aina had delivered a stellar performance in Nigeria’s recent encounter with Benin Republic. Operating on the right flank, the former Torino defender impressed with his dribbling and defensive efforts, even drawing a foul in a standout moment of skill.
With Nigeria’s qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations already secured—thanks to Victor Osimhen’s late equalizer against Benin—the match against Rwanda holds little significance. However, Aina’s absence leaves a gap in the squad. Nasarawa United’s Victor Collins is expected to seize the opportunity as his replacement.
While the rest of the Super Eagles team returned to Nigeria to prepare for Monday’s clash, Aina’s focus has shifted back to his Premier League commitments with Nottingham Forest, where fans will be eager to hear updates on his condition.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 15, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Former Black Stars midfielder, Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu, has called on Ghana’s national football team to take a fearless, attack-first approach in their upcoming qualifier against Angola. With their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualification hanging by a thread, Agyemang-Badu stressed that a draw would not be enough, and the team must go all out for a win.
Speaking to Asempa FM, Agyemang-Badu shared, “The only way to approach a game like this is to go for the win. A draw will not help you. Go all out with all the weapons you have and attack Angola. Even if we don’t qualify, the fans will know they’ve given their best.”
Ghana’s qualification hopes are slim, with their fate now out of their hands. After Niger’s 4-0 win over Sudan, the Black Stars need a victory over Angola at the Estádio 11 de Novembro to keep their AFCON hopes alive. With the current standings placing Ghana 12 points behind group leaders Angola, five points behind second-place Sudan, and two points behind third-place Niger, the road ahead is daunting.
On Monday, November 18, 2024, Ghana will return home for a pivotal clash against Niger, where they must secure all three points to remain in the race for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
