The Super Eagles’ clash with Libya was dominated by the men in green on Saturday.
Eagles won through hard work and mental toughness. They showed enduring qualities of strength, persistence and positive attitude. Many players did an exceptional job:
The back four proved their strength throughout the entire duration of the match. Header after header, challenge after challenge was won by this back three. More credit is given to the attackers typically, however one of the reasons Nigeria kept a clean sheet was due to Leon Balogun, William Troost Ekong, Jamilu Collins, Shehu Abdullahi and then Ola Aina.
Proving his stamina and work rate was Oghenekaro Etebo. He along with Wilfred Ndidi showed great enthusiasm and effort while defending and attacking down their respectable flanks.
You could probably rate Odion Ighalo’s performance as influential on the afternoon but the only way he could make the difference is doing what he did – a brilliant hay trick. The Changchun Yatai goal-machine proved why he is indispensable in Nigeria’s attack and yet one of the best scorers on the continent.
It was also very exciting seeing Alex Iwobi back in excellent form. Perhaps he stood out in this match in midfield as the Super Eagles played more of a possession, attacking styled match allowing him time and opportunity with the ball, in which he proved dangerous with. The Arsenal man looked fit as ever, chasing and intercepting balls, attacking and defending continuously, but what impressed many was the return of his passing and shooting abilities.
The Eagles can also thank Francis Uzoho, the Elche keeper went untested for the majority of the match, and kept sharp making a crucial save denying Libya from close range.
A positive while winning through a 4-0 goal margin, is the team’s adrenaline levels. The Eagles will be fired up to take on Libya again on Tuesday in Sfax.
If the Super Eagles want to qualify for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon, they will have to tighten up a couple loose bolts and get ready to battle it out.
The attacking weapons of the Eagles can definitely threaten the Mediterranean Knights’ back line.
Not too many people predicted the Eagles would thump Libya 4-0 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in such a convincing manner.
The success was achieved due to ALL the players and staff members, not just a select few as shown on Saturday. High spirits, togetherness, respect and hard work is what got the Eagles victory in front of their fans, and those are the attributes needed to bring them further forward.
