attacking threats and learn to convert chances ahead of their clash against Tunisia on Saturday, SportPremi reports.
Nigeria face the Carthage Eagles in their second group C affair at the ongoing 2025 African Cup of Nations tournament in Morocco, knowing a win would seal their spot in the knockout stages of the competition.
The three-time African champions began their campaign with an impressive 2-1 win over Tanzania in their opening group game last Tuesday, but showed signs of profligacy in front of goal.
The Super Eagles had 21 attempts on goal in the clash and although 11 of those attempts were on target, they managed to score just twice in the clash.
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Talisman Victor Osimhen was uncharacteristically wasteful in front of goal, while the likes of Akor Adams, Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru also missed goalscoring chances.
They must learn to convert their chances against Tunisia, who will not be as easy to open through as against Tanzania in their previous match.
The Carthage Eagles, meanwhile also started off on a great note, defeating Uganda 3-1 in their opening clash to set up a tense affair with Nigeria.
The match will kickoff by 9 PM on Saturday at the Fez Stadium, with the Super Eagles making a return to the venue of their first match.
Osayi-Samuel eyes attacking improvement against Tunisia
Bright Osayi-Samuel was the preferred option at right-back ahead of Ryan Alebiosu against Tanzania and the defender will be hoping to keep his spot against Tunisia.
During an interview ahead of the clash, the Birmingham City right-back emphasized the need to be more efficient in front of goal.
“Yeah, we’re confident. It was good to get the first win. Could have played better, but you got the three points, and that’s the most important thing,” the 27-year-old stated.
“Just to keep doing what the manager wants us to do. You know, we’ve got one of the best players, three or four of the best players in Africa, so it’s about giving them more of the ball, just attacking more, pressing more, and just keep doing what the manager wants us to do, and I’m sure we’ll play better and score more goals.
I think taking our chances, we had quite a few today, but we didn’t take them. Overall, the more we play together, know our strengths, and try to give service to our number 9, then yeah, all the best”, he concluded.
The Super Eagles face Tunisia on Saturday, before concluding group stage actions against Uganda on the 30th of December.
A win this Saturday would seal their place in the next round, which would afford Eric Chelle the chance to rotate the team in their final match and rest several regulars ahead of the crucial knockout fixtures.
