Olympic Eagles coach, Imama Amapakabo has disclosed his relief that all the four players co-opted into his side for Monday’s Africa U-23 Cup of Nations second leg qualifier against Libya were able to blend easily into his tactics and squad selection.
Sports247.ng can report that, with the quartet of Francis Odinaka Uzoho, Valentine Uzornwafor, Chidozie Awaziem and Victor Osimhen all starting the game at Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, many felt the team would have blending problems.
However, it turned out to be a seamless blend of former and new lads in the squad, as they won the game 4-0, much to the delight of Amapakabo, who said he is happy that they all coped well in the encounter.
The former Rangers International of Enugu and El-Kanemi Warriors of Maiduguri coach further stated that he was happy with performances put up by all the players who donned Nigeria’s colours on the day.
Amapakabo confessed: “I am indeed happy with the performances of the players, especially the four we brought in from the Super Eagles.
“There was some fear among our fans that the players would find it hard to blend and adjust to our pattern, but they proved everyone wrong.
“They’ve always been part of the team. We sit down and analyze our players, I think we have a fantastic pool of young players.
”We boast of having one of the youngest sides. We have to look at those young players that are available.
“Kudos to Nigeria for having these brilliant young talents. Ever since we came together I told them two goals is the easiest scoreline to cancel.
”All we needed was to score one goal, cancel that and score another goal. We needed one goal at a time.
“I am happy with the outcome of this match, and I am sure this team will get better. We have overcome a tough hurdle.
“Now we can settle down to play better matche sin the next round, and I believe this team will get better with each match they play together.”
