AFCON 2021: Five outstanding players as Super Eagles qualify for second round

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have booked their place in the second round of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon after a decent 3-1 victory over Sudan.

Samuel Chukwueze, who had a poor game against the Pharaohs of Egypt in the first game scored the first goal as early as the third minute as he fired a low shot into the bottom right corner from the box. 

Taiwo Awoniyi scored his first goal for the national team as the Super Eagles doubled their lead just before halftime. 

Once again, Moses Simon, who is having a great tournament, increased the lead by one as he buried a low drive underneath the Sudanese goalkeeper a few seconds after restart. 

Sudan got a consolation via the spot kick after Ola Aina stamped on Mustapha Karshom in the box.

The Super Eagles have now qualified for the second round of the tournament alongside host nation Cameroon. 

Here are four players who were exceptional in the match;

• Moses Simon

The Nantes winger has been Super Eagles best player so far in the tournament and he proved that once again as he provided a goal and an assist. His tireless run down the flanks, his attacking and defensive prowess were beneficial to the team as Austin Eguavoen’s men picked up another three points. 

• Zaidu Sanusi

The FC Porto defender was solid defensively. He didn’t allow any of the Sudanese attackers to pass through him. His recovery rate after surging forward was brilliant as well. 

• Taiwo Awoniyi

The Union Berlin striker scored his first goal for the national team in quite an unsual fashion but the former youth international took it nonetheless. He was a constant threat in the box of the Sudanese. He could have scored more but he was unlucky as one of his shots towards goal hit the woodwork. 

• Wilfred Ndidi

The Leicester City defensive stalwart continues to prove that he has no rival in that position on the continent as he once again put up another impressive performance. 

He provided cover for the backline and also offered Joe Aribo the license to join the attack as often as possible in the match. Ndidi, with his performance so far in the tournament will continue to attract the attention of big clubs this summer. 

• Kenneth Omeruo

One of the most experienced players in the team showed why the coach should always put his trust in him. The Leganes defender led the defense line very well. Precise tackles, accurate passes, aerial duels, communication with the other defenders were some of the qualities he showed on the night as he helped the team secure their ticket into the round of sixteen.

The Super Eagles lead Group D with six points and they will take on Guinea-Bissau on Wednesday in their final group match on Wednesday.