Former Nigeria captain, Joseph Yobo, has pinpointed Alex Iwobi as the potential creative linchpin for the Super Eagles amidst their goal-scoring challenges at the ongoing 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast.
The team managed to secure a spot in the round of 16 with seven points from the group stages but faced criticism for their relatively low goal tally.
Read Also: NPFL: Officiating Improvement In Progress – Owumi Affirms
The Eagles found the net three times in the group phase, with Victor Osimhen, William Troost-Ekong’s penalty, and an own goal by Opa Sangante contributing to their modest goal count.
Nigerian fans express concern about the team’s offensive capabilities, Yobo believes Iwobi can be the key to unlocking the attacking potential of the squad.
Analyzing the team’s performance, Yobo emphasized the need for creativity in the midfield, stating, “Our strength is from the flanks but if we can be creative from the middle, we will create more chances, but that is lacking. So, we are not getting much from the attacking midfield.”
Yobo acknowledged the team’s defensive solidity, commending their compactness at the back and the goalkeeper’s minimal workload. Despite their goal-scoring struggles, he urged the team to focus on the positive aspects of their performance.
In particular, Yobo highlighted Iwobi’s role, stating, “In the midfield, I think when Iwobi peaks, when he plays to his strength, I think we will see his creativity upfront.”
With Nigeria advancing to the round of 16 and set to face Cameroon on Saturday, the spotlight is on the Super Eagles to address their offensive deficiencies.
As they aim to secure their fourth AFCON title after previous triumphs in 1980, 1994, and 2013, the tactical adjustments, particularly in the midfield, could be the key to their success in the knockout stages.
fans eagerly await whether Iwobi can emerge as the vital playmaker to ignite the team’s attacking prowess and propel them to glory in the tournament.
