The Super Eagles of Nigeria began the quest to win win their fourth AFCON title with an impressive win over Egypt.
A sublime strike by Leicester City forward, Kelechi Iheanacho in the first half gave the Super Eagles all three points over the Egyptians who were more or less pedestrian for the entire duration of the game.
A handful of players did exceptionally well in the match as Austin Eguavoen began his interim campaign on a wining note.
Here are five players who caught our attention for ninety minutes
- Ekong and Oneruo
Rock solid! Performance the Zuma Rick should be named after the duo as they kept Mohammed Salah out of the game. One could argue that Salah was in either of Omeruo’s or Ekong’s pocket.
The two center-backs led the lines very well such that Okoye had little or nothing to do. Even when Omeruo got injured, Ekong continued to coordinate the defense alongside Semi Ajayi.
- Ola Aina
His pace was a menace to the defense line of Egypt. He was unstoppable! He kept on joining the attack creating overloads down the right flank. He was go[d too defensively.
- Joe Aribo and Ndidi
They make the midfield theirs. While Aribo joined the attack often, Ndidi offered protection for the backline as he neutralised all attempts by the Egyptians to launch a counter-attack.
Aribo’s sleek passes and elegance on the ball was a delight to watch. He provided the assist to Iheanacho’s goal in the first half.
- Moses Simon
He terrorised the defense line of the Egytians all through the game. Even though his final balls were quite poor, he made the one from which Aribo provided the assist to Iheanacho.
- Iheanacho
What else can be said about one of the most prolific goalscorers in the colors of Nigeria? He had a brilliant game no doubt. He could have scored more but he didn’t just get it right.
However, he was very good on the night.
The Super Eagles will take on Sudan in their next game on Saturday.
