Super Eagles manager, Jose Peseiro and defender, kenneth Omeruo have shown their support for Francis Uzoho ahead of the World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Zimbabwe.
Uzoho has come under fierce criticisms in the media and by fans in the last few months over series of poor performances in between the sticks for the Super Eagles.
The Omonia of Cyprus goalkeeper was in goal for Nigeria in last month’s friendly matches against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique in Portugal.
VIDEO: Kenneth Omeruo speaks on Francis Uzoho and Maduka Okoye criticism:
— Adepoju Tobi Samuel 🇳🇬 (@OgaNlaMedia) November 15, 2023
"Media no dey help issue."
"E no easy to keep for Nigeria. Uzoho get mind, if not, e for don run."
Brought to you by – @flyvaluejet 👇 pic.twitter.com/bffBo4inzi
The 25-year-old goalie was heavily criticized for the some of the goals Nigeria conceded in the two matches which ended two-all and 3-2 respectively.
In addition, Uzoho is still being blamed for contributing to Super Eagles failure to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar due to the goal he conceded against the Black Stars of Ghana at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja.
However, ahead of the team’s opening fixtures of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification series against Lesotho and Zimbabwe, Jose Peseiro has affirmed that Uzoho remains the first choice and the best for the team.
“Uzoho is our goalkeeper, Okoye, Ojo, Amas and Adeleye are our goalkeepers. I am not stupid, I want to play the best players, but it is my confidence.”
The coach said this during the press briefing ahead of the match against the Crocodiles of Lesotho.
Super Eagles Stand-in captain, Kenneth Omero also gave his support for his teammate as he called on Nigerian football fans to support him.
Francis Uzoho is expected to start on Thursday when the Super Eagles take on Lesotho at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo on Thursday 16th, November 2023.
