THE Super Eagles of Nigeria were beaten 2-0 by Guinea in a friendly match in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates today ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2023).
With head coach Jose Peseiro opting for a largely second string starting line-up without the likes of Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, Alex Iwobi and Ademola Lookman, the Super Eagles were not able to break down the Guinean defence.
Nigeria had their first chance in the 13th minute but Moses Simon’s effort was saved.
One minute later, Guinea’s Syli Nationale were ahead, opening the scoring.
The Super Eagles were then given a golden opportunity for a quick equaliser when they were awarded a penalty for a foul on Umar Sadiq.
Simon failed to convert the spot kick in the 19th minute though as Guinea held on to their lead.
There were more chances for Nigeria to pull level before half-time, but Sadiq headed over and Samuel Chukwueze’s attempt went narrowly wide.
As the Super Eagles pressed for the equaliser they were caught by a sucker punch, with Guinea extending their advantage in the 64th minute.
Afterwards, Peseiro made changes, bringing on Iwobi, Calvin Bassey and Frank Onyeka for Kenneth Omeruo, Ralph Onyedika and Chidozie Awaziem with 17 minutes left on the clock.
Joe Aribo, Ahmed Musa and Lookman were also brought on with seven minutes to go, but the Guineans held on to hand a demoralising defeat to the Super Eagles.
AFCON 2023 will kick off on Saturday in Cote d’Ivoire and end on February 11, with the Super Eagles in Group A with the hosts, Guinea-Bissau and Equatorial Guinea.
