Head coach of Algeria Vladimir Petkovic has blamed unfair officiating as part of the reasons why his team were beaten 2-0 by Nigeria in the quarter final of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations, OwnGoalNigeria.com reports.
Petkovic whose team came into the game with just one goal conceded in the tournament were made to look ordinary by a Nigerian team, who were far dominant and better in all areas.
Victor Osimhen scored one and set up another for Jerome Akor Adams to seal the win for Nigeria, who are now through to the semi final where they will take on the host Morocco.
“We were missing several things. They didn’t let us dribble, there were referee decisions that weren’t easy, but our opponent was particularly strong and showed their qualities. Physically, we were tired because of the last match, which was tense”, he explained.
He however rounded it up by paying tribute to the performance of the Super Eagles, who in his words made it really hard for his team with the way they attacked.
“Do I have to tell the truth or should I be political [about the match]? Nigeria deserved to win this match. They were better than us. It was difficult to get into this match… We were hit left and right…”
Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman
