5 Takeaways From Super Eagles’ 2-1 Win Over Cape Verde In Mindelo

Nigeria’s Super Eagles, on Tuesday, September 7 2021, came from a goal down to defeat Cape Verde 2-1 in a FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifier at the Estadio Municipal Aderito Sena in Mindelo. And they did it without the core of the players that prosecuted 2-0 win over Liberia the previous week.

Completesports.com’s Augustine Akhilomen highlights five remarking things learnt from the Eagles’ showing that made the victory memorable.

 Ejuke Deserves More Playing Time In Nigeria’s Colours

Chidera Ejuke was a class act as he dazzled through the flank with ease, causing so much nightmare for the Cape Verde defenders. His energy and ability to track back in order to help the defence showed why he should be considered for more game time for the Super Eagles. His contributions in the team’s victory against the Blue Sharks will never be forgotten in a hurry.

Osimhen Still Reliable Super Eagles Goal Poacher

Napoli striker, Victor Osimhen,  was on his best mettle as he was in the right place, at the right time to score from a defensive error between two Cape Verde players. Though he had handful of chances, but the few times he had the chance to test the Cape Verdean goalkeeper, Osimhen didn’t disappoint.

Okoye Needs Serious Competition For Goalie Starting Shirt

Maduka Okoye may have done well to prevent further goals from the Eagles’ hosts, but his inability to cover his posts well resulted to Cape Verde’s shock lead in the 18th minute. Perhaps, he needs a stiffer competition for his position in order to put him on his toes in subsequent games.

Resourceful Michael, Bonke Partnership In Midfield 

Playing for the first time in the absence of some regular players such as Wilfred Ndidi and Joe Aribo in the heart of the midfield, the duo of Kingsley Michael and Innocent Bonke showed some sense of understanding and pushed the attack in the  few times they had the opportunities. No doubt, with more game time, they could form a formidable partnership for the Super Eagles in future.

Read Also: Exclusive: 2022 WCQ: Super Eagles Fought Hard To Beat Cape Verde -Nwosu

Shehu Abdulahi, Simon Moses Offered Little

Both Moses Simon and Shehu Abdullahi had one of their worst games in the colours of the Super Eagles as they made little or no impact against Cape Verde. They were more like ‘passengers’ and it was not surprising that Simon was substituted in the 73rd minute for Henry Onyekuru.