The Super Eagles played below par and as such suffered their first home loss in a World Cup qualifier in 40 years to unfancied Central African Republic today in Lagos.
Francis Uzoho 5
Returned between the Eagles’ sticks after two years in the wilderness to hand his country their worst defeat ever against a country ranked outside of the 120 in the FIFA ranking. Substitute Karl Namganda playing in the fourth-tier league in France returned late in the second half to beat the towering keeper after forcing him to save his effort earlier.
Ola Aina 4
Certainly not his usual competent shift for his country at right back. Wasted a number of efforts going forward and made his meaningless crosses.
Leon Balogun 3
Culpable for this regrettable defeat falling on a heap and “cheering” Namganda on to put his name on the score sheet and making him a hero.
William Troost-Ekong 3
What did he get that limpet like marking from that gifted Namganda that killer goal? Terrible game for the member of fallen and disgraced “Oyibo Wall”.
Jamilu Collins 4
What was he doing on the pitch for 90 minutes? His strength failed him to contain the rampaging CAR players. Perhaps, new boy Calvin Ughelumba could have done better on his debut?
Frank Onyeka 5
Much better game for the Brentford midfielder on his second cap combining well with the defence and attack and containing the fast and robust playing CAR players.
Kelechi Iheanacho 5
Tried hard to bulldoze his way to goal against this hard, resolute and determined CAR defence but ran himself aground in the process. Injured himself trying to drive a curler and it was a day for him after the recess.
Moses Simon 5
A tough evening for the Nantes winger, whose efforts were roundly made insignificant for the tough tackling and determined CAR defence.
Joe Ayodele-Aribo 5
Held his own fairly well in the midfield combining well with Victor Osihmen and company in the attack but failed to make hay and provide the spark the attack badly needed.
Chidera Ejuke 6
One of the positives in a highly subdued evening; switched from the wings to the middle to bring some quickness and alertness into the team but all came to nought. Seems he’s come to stay with his assured outing
Victor Osimhen 6
The only thing the Napoli marksman didn’t do was to score, but he found life extremely difficult trying to break down semi-professionals from Central Africa. Had a number of efforts gone with the winds for a very bad Lagos evening for the Super Eagles.
Subs
Taiwo Awoniyi 5
Brought renewed vigour into the Eagles’ attack when he replaced injured Iheanacho but tough luck denied him two goals on a bad day.
Ahmed Musa 5
At least he is now just a game away after he played the last 11 minutes of this encounter.
Samuel Kalu 5
Tried his best to make an impact but could not do much against this supremely determined CAR side.
