Nigeria’s national team coach, Jose Peseiro, addressed concerns about the Super Eagles’ attacking prowess not being matched in other areas of their team as they prepare to begin their bid for the Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON 2023. Peseiro expressed confidence in his players despite worries about the goalkeeping position and a series of withdrawals from the squad.
The three-time champions are set to open their campaign against Equatorial Guinea in Abidjan on Sunday, led by African footballer of the year Victor Osimhen. Despite the withdrawals, Nigeria possesses some of Africa’s top-notch attackers, including Kelechi Iheanacho, Terem Moffi, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon, and Ademola Lookman.
However, concerns arise about the team’s overall depth, particularly in the goalkeeping position. Francis Uzoho of Omonia Nicosia in Cyprus has been Nigeria’s first choice goalkeeper in recent matches. Peseiro acknowledged the discrepancy in strength across different positions but expressed his belief in all his players, from the goalkeeper to the striker.
Peseiro told reporters in Abidjan, “Every team sometimes has more power in certain positions. It happens to all national teams. It is my job and responsibility to create a good organization, but the main point is that I believe in them.”
Nigeria has been plagued by injuries, with Victor Boniface of Bayer Leverkusen, Umar Sadiq of Real Sociedad, and Wilfred Ndidi of Leicester City all pulling out just before the kick-off. Peseiro confirmed that Terem Moffi of French Ligue 1 side Nice will not be able to join the team in time to feature against Equatorial Guinea. Furthermore, Kelechi Iheanacho and the late addition Paul Onuachu arrived in Ivory Coast just before the match.
As Nigeria embark on their journey in AFCON 2023, fans and critics eagerly await the performance of the Super Eagles and their attacking prowess. Despite concerns about depth and injuries, Peseiro’s unwavering belief in his players aims to inspire confidence in both the team and the nation. Only time will tell if Nigeria can live up to their formidable reputation and capture the continental trophy for the fourth time.
