The training of the senior national team of Nigeria ahead of today’s international friendly game against Portugal had some very key points picked out by our eagle eyed editorial team, the points will be stated below.
1. Uzoho Is Back As Number 1: From all indication Omonia Nicosia of Cyprus goalkeeper Francis Uzoho has reclaimed his spot as the first choice goalkeeper. This much we noticed during the training that despite Maduka Okoye’s sharpness. It’s Uzoho who is still going to start today.
2. Chukwueze Risk Getting Dropped: Aside from being the last player to report to camp for training ahead of the game. Samuel Chukwueze has lost his spot on the flanks to the duo of Moses Simon and Ademola Lookman. Jose Peseiro could consider dropping him from the squad for future games if his commitment doesn’t change.
3. Joe Aribo Gets New Role – From his last season at Scottish side Rangers, it became clear that having Aribo close to goal brings out the best in him. That same role is what he is thriving in at Southampton and for the first time in the colours of Nigeria, he will operate in the same capacity. Thanks to Peseiro’s 4-4-2 approach.
4. Super Eagles Won’t Miss Osimhen – If there is one area where the team has shown remarkable improvement is in the area of goal scoring despite the absence of main striker Victor Osimhen. The trio of Terem Moffi, Ademola Lookman and Paul Onuachu light up the training session with goals after goals.
5. Last Chance Salon For Emmanuel Dennis – His inclusion in the team ahead of Taiwo Awoniyi raised eye brows but the coach still feels he need to be given ample game time to be properly assessed. That he will get against Portugal if all goes according to plan and a decision on his future with the team will be made afterwards.
