Ebere Amaraizu, former Board Member and South-East Director of Nationwide League One (NLO), has cautioned the Super Eagles ahead of their upcoming clash with Guinea Bissau in the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON). Amaraizu emphasized that Guinea Bissau would approach the match as “wounded lions” and advised the Nigerian team to avoid complacency.
In an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Enugu, Amaraizu predicted a tense encounter between the two teams and stressed the importance of the Super Eagles not underestimating their opponents. He urged the team to prepare both technically and tactically, emphasizing that Guinea Bissau would aim to use the match to make a statement in the tournament.
“The last group match between Super Eagles and Guinea Bissau national team is a match that must be approached with both technical and tactical prowess. Nothing should be left to chance, and no stone should be left unturned in its preparations,” Amaraizu stated.
Highlighting the potential threat posed by Guinea Bissau, he warned that the team would fight to prove they are not to be underestimated. Amaraizu urged the Super Eagles to expect a tough encounter and advised against overconfidence or distractions.
He recommended maintaining the squad that played against Ivory Coast, emphasizing the importance of a strong midfield to support the defense and enhance the attacking network. The goal, according to Amaraizu, should be securing maximum three points in the match.
The 25-year-old, who played a standout season with LOSC Lille in the French Ligue 1, was unable to collect the award in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions. He secured the prestigious trophy three years after initially earning it.
Dean Furman Applauds Super Eagles’ Defensive Excellence in 1-0 Triumph Over Ivory Coast at AFCON 2023″
Former Bafana Bafana midfielder Dean Furman expressed admiration for the Super Eagles’ defensive prowess in their 1-0 victory against Ivory Coast in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations on Thursday.
After a lackluster 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea in their opening match at the ongoing tournament in Ivory Coast, the three-time African champions sought a strong response. Central defender William Troost-Ekong, donning the captain’s armband, secured the win with a penalty ten minutes into the second half, following a foul on Nigeria’s star player Victor Osimhen in the box.
The defensive trio of Semi Ajayi, Frank Onyeka, and Troost-Ekong showcased brilliant performances, with special mention given to Calvin Bassey on his starting debut at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Furman, known for his time with Bafana Bafana, praised the Super Eagles for defying expectations and delivering an outstanding defensive performance that frustrated their opponents. In an interview with the BBC, Furman commended the tactical masterclass displayed by the Nigerians, who operated in a 5-4-1 (3-4-3) formation.
“The back five, every single one of them put their hand up and said there’s no way you’re getting through us today Ivory Coast. On the break, they were a threat,” Furman remarked. He described the performance as a “statement win,” acknowledging that the players would gain confidence from beating a top nation in the competition.
Furman was part of the South African team that was defeated 2-1 by Nigeria in the quarterfinals of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.
Falconets Secure FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Spot with Opeyemi Ajakaye’s Winning Goal Against Burundi”
The Nigeria U-20 female national football team, Falconets, clinched a spot in this year’s FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup finals following a hard-fought encounter against Burundi. Opeyemi Ajakaye’s crucial goal in the second leg at the MKO Abiola National Stadium secured a 2-0 aggregate victory for the Coach Christopher Danjuma-led team in the final round of the African qualifying race. The Falconets had previously won the first leg 1-0 in Dar es Salaam six days earlier.
Breaking the deadlock in the 78th minute, Ajakaye, assisted by Akekoromowei, propelled the Falconets to victory. Although Ajakaye scored again in the 90th minute, the goal did not stand. The result ensures the Falconets’ qualification for the final tournament in Colombia later this year.
Nigeria has maintained a consistent presence at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, participating since its inception as an U-19 tournament in Canada 22 years ago. The team finished as runners-up in 2010 and 2014 and reached the semi-finals in Japan in 2012.
Coach Yussif Basigi Provides Update on Black Princesses’ Preparations for Crucial FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup Qualifier Against Senegal”
The final round qualifier for the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup will see the Black Princesses hosting Senegal, and Head Coach Yussif Basigi offers insights into the team’s preparation and expectations ahead of this pivotal encounter in Kumasi.
On Preparation: “Our preparation is progressing well. The training sessions have been effective, with the players responding positively to our tactical shaping. I believe we are on the right track.”
On Injuries: “We are fortunate not to have any injury concerns, particularly among those who will be part of the match day squad. The medical team has assured us that everyone is in good condition.”
On the Importance of the Second Leg: “The players have had discussions amongst themselves and acknowledged that the return leg holds greater significance than the first. They are fully committed and approaching the game with utmost seriousness. There is a sense of reduced pressure on both the coaches and players. We are not underestimating our opponents, recognizing their strong capabilities.”
On the Need for Support: “Ghanaians can anticipate victory and qualification to the World Cup tomorrow. I encourage everyone to come out in large numbers to support the Black Princesses and rally behind them for victory. We appreciate the continuous support throughout this journey, and as we approach the final lap, we request the fans to fill the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.”
A victory in this match will secure the Black Princesses a ticket to their seventh consecutive appearance at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Columbia. The match against Senegal is scheduled to take place at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Sunday, January 21, 2024, at 4:00 pm.
