Beyond winning and getting the maximum three points in the Group A Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Guinea Bissau, the Super Eagles have a lot to prove.
It is noteworthy that Nigeria football has been on steady decline for a while. The statistics speak clear.
Absence at the last World Cup, elimination at Round of 16 Africa Cup of Nations last year in Cameroon by a heavily depleted Tunisian side, consecutive three-match losses as well as poor runs of Nigerian clubs at continental inter clubs competitions are just some of the indicators of the national sport’s decline.
It has been seen how Senegal have suddenly taken commanding position in all African national teams’ competitions as serial winners in past 13 months. From AFCON to CHAN, Beach soccer and U20, Senegal reign supreme.
Before now, no African country has held such dominance, holding four titles simultaneity. Senegal are still in the race to take the two remaining titles in the next two months – the U17 and the U23. Nigeria must present a credible challenge!
A revival should begin with a resounding win over Guinea Bissau to assuage for the dismal performance of the Olympic Eagles in their game with Guinea two days ago.
Boasting of an attacking weapons like Victor Osimhen, Paul Onuachu, Samuel Chukwueze, Moses Simon and Ademola Lookman, it will be a tragedy if the Super Eagles turns out to be a laborious outfit against Guinea Bissau.
A comfortable win will not only boost morale and make the return leg an easier task that will ensure an early qualification, it will afford time to rebuild for the more competitive final tournament in Cote d’Ivoire next year. We must not just win once in a while, we must make winning a habit.
