The Super Eagles of Nigeria will be foolish to themselves if they go into today’s knockout match at the African Nation’s Cup in Morocco looking down on their opponents or not being psychologically bullish on the day.
We have seen upsets already in this year’s tournament and it is now a fact that in African football, the gap between the big nations and the supposedly smaller footballing nations has over the years closed drastically, and there’s not much to separate countries in male soccer competitions.
Therefore the Super Eagles of Nigeria, need to dig deep into their wealth of experience, and professionalism of their arrays of stars so as not to be caught off guard by the enterprising Mozambicans, who are very athletic and quick in transitions as we have already seen in the previous games.
In my observation, I have listed out few areas I suggest that the Nigerian team handlers look deeply into, in order to navigate this tricky challenge.
We should be wary of Mozambique for several reasons:
1. *MOZAMBIQUE’S COUNTER-ATTACKING STYLE*:
Mozambique have shown remarkable improvement in their counter-attacking play, which can catch opponents off guard. They often prioritize a solid defensive structure, making it difficult for opponents to penetrate their backline-
2. *DEFENSIVE SOLIDITY*:
Mozambique’s defense has been impressive, and they have managed to secure crucial wins and draws against strong opponents. Nigeria will need to work hard to break down their defense. This is where the tactical knowledge of the coaches will come into play. Personally I would throw in a Chukwueze on the flanks, and a Dele Bashiru for power and strengths with an Osimhen. But it is not my position and decision. It’ll be good to see the formation Eric Chelle will adopt and his choice of players.
3. *UNPREDICTABILITY*:
Mozambique have demonstrated the ability to surprise opponents with their counter-attacking play, and Nigeria should not underestimate their opponents. The Super Eagles ability to start the pressing early and effectively from the Mozambicans’ first third of the pitch will do Nigeria a lot of good. Then, Nigeria have the personnel in the middle to cut out the attacking threats, because Ndidi and Frank Onyeka are well experienced in this regard. The question will be, will they find their rhythm on the day? I hope they do.
4. *INJURY CONCERNS FOR NIGERIA*:
The Super Eagles have been dealing with injury concerns, particularly with players like Cyril Dessers whom we hear has left the camp due to a thigh injury, also Ryan Alebiosu, plus Tochukwu Nnadi, who we hear is under the weather. These could impact their performance against Mozambique, but I am sure Nigeria have enough cover for these for the game. Baring no new injury news, I think the team are sound enough without the mentioned injured/sick players.
5. *HEAD-TO-HEAD RECORD*:
While Nigeria have dominated the head-to-head record, Mozambique have managed to secure a few draws and even a surprise victory in the recent past.
To overcome these challenges, Nigeria need to maintain a solid defensive structure.
Nigeria’s defense will need to be solid to contain Mozambique’s counter-attacking threat.
We also need to exploit Mozambique’s weaknesses and inexperience. Understanding that the Nigerian front line are well known and respected attackers who have won the crown of Africa footballer of the year recently, therefore Nigeria’s attacking talent, led by players like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, will need to exploit Mozambique’s weaknesses and create scoring opportunities.
If Nigeria can avoid complacency, and not underestimate Mozambique abilities, approach the match with caution and focus, with urgency and commitment, I think the Super Eagles are poised to go past the huddle of this stage. The response is Nigeria’s to make.
May Super Eagles Succeed!!!
By Coach Ezindu Okay-Lawrence
Grassroots Development Coach/Instructor, Social Critic, Sports Administrator, Soccer Analyst, Officer/Security Expert and EXCO Member, NFCA, FCT chapter. +2348036594617
coachokaylawrence@gmail.com
