Ahead of Saturday’s AFCON quarter final game against Algeria, we pick five mistakes that the Super Eagles of Nigeria must avoid if they are to make it past Algeria.
Both teams head into the game with a hundred percent record after winning all of their games so far at the tournament. It has made the game, which is a repeat of the 2019 semi final one to watch among other games.
1. Make Their Chances Count – Despite scoring ten goals in their last three games, the Nigerian team have been wasteful in front of goal. Largely due to poor decision or a rush finish in front of goal. Against the tournament’s best defence they have to make sure it counts especially early chances.
2. Avoid Picking Up Unnecessary Bookings – It’s one part that has gone unnoticed in the Nigerian team. For instance despite hitting four past Mozambique in the quarter final.
They picked up three yellow cards. Knowing the North Africans very well. They will no doubt resort to play acting to get more Nigerian players booked. Calvin Bassey in particular has to be careful.
3. Be More Compact In Defence – The Super Eagles in all of their games so far in the tournament have conceded chances or goals from opening slicing their defence open with ease. Their high press is not helping matter and it has to be checked against a highly technical Tunisian side.
4. Be Wary Of Long Range Effort – If there is one thing Tunisia have shown in this tournament. It’s their ability from range. It’s one area that Nigeria must try to limit and above that make sure goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali who can be erratic keeps a calm head and also stay focused.
5. Defend Set Piece Better – As it is with most technical sides, Tunisia as well will try to make the best use of free kicks and corner kicks, especially as they have shown us that they are comfortable with their opponents having the ball.
Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman
