Former Super Eagles striker Peter Ijeh has urged the team to tighten their defence to avoid it costing them in their knockout clash against Mozambique, SportPremi reports.
Nigeria face the Mambas in the Round of 16 at the ongoing African Cup of Nations tournament in Morocco on Monday, hoping to continue their good run so far at the tournament.
The three-time African champions finished top of their group stage with a perfect record, breezing past Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda in Group C.
- Read more:
- Garba Lawal sends strong message to Nigeria ahead of Mozambique clash
- Everything Bruno Onyemaechi said ahead of Mozambique clash
However, the team showed signs of weakness in their defence, conceding four times during these three games.
Apart from the penalty converted by Tunisia’s Ali Abdi in the 3-2 win, the other three goals conceded followed a similar pattern, as the backline failed in their attempt to hold a high line, costing the team.
Peter Ijeh offers advise ahead of crucial Mozambique clash
Speaking in an interview ahead of the Super Eagles must-win encounter against Mozambique on Monday as they continue their quest for a fourth African crown, Peter Ijeh believes the team must improve defensively to avoid elimination.
“This Super Eagles team is suddenly full of goals, but they are struggling to keep clean sheets, which should lead to another entertaining contest”, the ex-international said.
“The coach has plenty of strength in depth at his disposal, and it remains to be seen whether any of the players who came in against Uganda can keep their places. Raphael Onyedika registered a quick-fire second-half brace from midfield, while Paul Onuachu also got on the scoresheet after deputising for Akor Adams alongside Osimhen.
These two players have given the technical crew and coaches more to chew on and more decisions to make, creating greater competition in midfield and in attack”, Peter Ijeh added.
On the threat posed by Mozambique
“Mozambique winning an AFCON game for the first time and reaching the last 16 is a huge achievement, and they can be very proud of their efforts at this tournament, regardless of what happens next. As it is, I think they will again play their part in a decent contest, where Nigeria’s far superior firepower will eventually tell”, he continued.
“Nigeria have won four of the five previous meetings between these two countries, with the only exception being a goalless World Cup qualifier in 2009. Their last meeting was in October 2023, when the Super Eagles won a friendly match in Portugal 3–2. I think it’s going to be an interesting game, but the Super Eagles are the favourites on paper.”
The Fez Stadium will host the crunch Round of 16 tie between Nigeria and Mozambique on Monday at 8 PM, with the winner set to face the winner of another knockout tie between Algeria and DR Congo in the quarterfinals.
