The Super Eagles have sparked off hope of big things to come not just because of a decisive 1-0 win over seven-time champions Egypt, but also the convincing manner they achieved it.
On Tuesday, Kelechi Iheanacho was the match winner with a 30th minute blaster to get Nigeria off and running at the AFCON in Cameroon.
Against Egypt, the Eagles did not look like a team who had fired their long-serving coach just weeks ago and whose preparation was marred by the withdrawal of key stars like Victor Osimhen and late arrivals to training camp.
Former Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh praised the team for dominating the Pharaohs.
“Technically, tactically, physically, mentally and whatever positive…ly you can think of, Eguavoen-led Super Eagles I feel dominated Egypt and is the best Super Eagles performance in recent years,” Oliseh commended.
“At this rate, we can be extremely optimistic my people.
“Moses Simon player of the match?”
Former Super Eagles captain Austin ‘Jay Jay’ Okocha saluted the overall performance of the team.
“It was a solid performance against one of the tournament favourites,” he said.
“The Eagles are in Cameroon for business.”
BBC reporter John Bennett lavished more encomiums on the Eagles.
“That was a statement performance by Nigeria,” he tweeted.
“Very impressive.
“Egypt were poor but that was partly down to the solidity of the Super Eagles.
“Kelechi and Co looking sharp.”
Top Ghanaian journalist Saddick Adams was equally effusive about the Eagles super display.
“Super game by the Super Eagles,” he wrote.
“They look well-drilled.
“Salah completely impounded by the Nigeria strategy.
“Great set up and performance.”
Zambian journalist Kalumiana Kalumiana remarked: “Amazing! Best Super Eagles performance I have seen in 20 years.”
“Impressive performance by #TeamNigeria. This is not your Gernot Rohr Super Eagles,” further praised Algerian football writer Walid Ziani.
“I am proud to be a Nigerian,” celebrated jubilant football fan Sophia.
“Keep the energy up, the trophy coming home.”
The Eagles are top of Group D with three points after Sudan and Guinea Bissau played out a goalless draw in the other game in Garoua.
They next tackle Sudan on Saturday.
