The Super Eagles were held to a 0-0 stalemate yesterday night by Uganda, in a friendly game staged at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba.
The people of Asaba came out in droves to watch the Super Eagles make a public show of their opponents, however the sturdy Ugandan team had a plan of their own — a win at any cost.
Uganda was a very good example of the challenges Nigeria will face when the Eagles meet Africa’s best in next year’s African Cup of Nations finals in Cameroon.
The Game
Both teams came out to win yesterday, but this was a challenge neither Nigeria nor Uganda could beat. The events of the game represented a call to action for the Super Eagles to get back to training if they truly want to win their fourth AFCON title.
Though Nigeria set up better opportunities during the game, the Ugandan boys were a match for whatever the Super Eagles had in store.
Ten minutes into the game, Uganda came within an inch of taking the lead, but the Ugandan forward’s shot went wide.
Four minutes later a goal squabble inside the Uganda box almost gave Nigeria the lead, however Victor Osimhen was slow on the ball, and would need to learn quite a lot more if he plans to feature in Nigeria’s next matches.
More trials at a goal from both teams only proved just how resilient both sides were.
Super Eagles debutant, Samuel Chukwueze, was the star of the game, validating coach Gernot Rohr’s decision to give him a chance.
It was a well contested game and both teams were up to task at every turn.