The home-based Super Eagles held the Black Galaxies of Ghana to a goalless draw in the first leg of their 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifying tie at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday night. The result leaves Nigeria in a promising position ahead of the second leg, as they aim to secure qualification for the biennial competition, which will be co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.
In this analysis, Completesports.com’s ADEBOYE AMOSU highlights five key talking points from the keenly contested encounter:
1. Resolute Defending
The Home Eagles displayed solid defensive organisation despite relentless pressure from the hosts. The Black Galaxies dominated the first half and sought an early breakthrough, but Nigeria’s defenders rose to the challenge, keeping their lines intact. Their game management included time-wasting tactics to control the tempo and disrupt Ghana’s attacking rhythm.
2. Nduka Junior: A Leader in Action
Remo Stars defender Nduka Junior justified his captaincy, even with seasoned players like Sikiru Alimi and Rabiu Ali in the squad. His composed performance, coupled with his ability to organise the backline, showcased his leadership qualities. Calm under pressure, Nduka played a pivotal role in ensuring the team remained defensively sound.
3. Ani Ozoemena’s Assured Goalkeeping
The relatively unknown goalkeeper, now Enyimba’s first choice following Ojo Olorunleke’s departure, delivered a commendable performance. Ozoemena, preferred over the experienced Kayode Bankole, made crucial saves and exuded a calm demeanour throughout the game. His confidence between the sticks undoubtedly earned him praise from fans and teammates alike.
4. Home Eagles’ Slow Start
Nigeria began the match on the back foot, with the Black Galaxies dominating the early exchanges and pressing for an opening goal. The visitors’ defence endured intense pressure but stood firm. After the break, the Home Eagles found their rhythm and came close to scoring, with Sikiru Alimi striking the woodwork from a long-range effort.
5. Remo Stars Quartet Impress
Four Remo Stars players—Nduka Junior, Ismail Sodiq, Jide Fatokun, and Sikiru Alimi—featured in the starting XI, and all delivered noteworthy performances. Nduka and Sodiq were exceptional in defence, Fatokun controlled the midfield with poise, and Alimi’s physical presence and link-up play posed challenges for the Ghanaian defence.
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