jihday:
looks like ogogoro joint discussion

probably

jihday:
nobody gets the goal

ok bro

jihday:
We don't need the nations league. CAF should have a regular tournament for U-23 players, in Europe the youth teams play every FIFA window that's what CAF should copy. They should also make the CAF champions league more exciting and glamorous, at its present state it's very boring and quite predictable

Youre right!! The U23 need all rounda games.


I can't wait to see a great change to the CCL's Overall identity. Its too boring.

daveP:
Wetin dey pain me pass na the number of games they'll eventually garner.

2,3,5,4,1,2,6,


And then the call ups teh pause with excuses and bias and dumb talks and snubs and etc.


Like 3games for a NT career of over a decade of allegiance?!!!


Is that one wisdom atall?

Even if the SE is crap(of which we aren't one bit, it still doesnt make sense.


Be like LionKing Motivation don dey cause too much head swelling.

it's not bias, they are actually crap. Dele have been dropped, will you say it's bias? Name the ones you think deserved a longer stay with the 3 lions make we see

And you have Juventus' players on your wall or what? Why do you persist with the balderdash of Juventus being innocent?? Why so keen to absolve them of any blame? Stop with your silly defense biko. It is not making any kind of good sense at all. A club followed strict health protocols in the wake of the pandemic Covid and you are here talking like you are Juve's attorney and not even making good sense in their defence. Funny.

do4luv14:




You got a score to settle with Juve or what,

If you were the one at home, and you have not given to go ahead to cancel a match, you will cancel it right?

Point either them be Otuocha, or dicks, they cant be blame

cos its only An Aturu that will sit at home snoring

daveP:
Youre right!! The U23 need all rounda games.


I can't wait to see a great change to the CCL's Overall identity. Its too boring.

as it is we have to wait for 4 more years before we can see our next U-23 in action. Imagine playing CCL games on Sat and Sunday night televised live with lots of fans brilliant football analyst and plenty hypes, every performing players will get easy invites to the NT, transfers to the top leagues in Europe and with time teams from west Africa will catch up with their north African counterpart

forgiveness:


Emperor of tribalism, you no need my shalaye.

E be like say Kabiyesi na bot o, same responses, no wonder!!!!

October International Break Review: Super Eagles - Part 1

A player-by-player breakdown

With the international break for October finally done, I decided to analyse the players who featured one by one before they all return to action this weekend starting from today with Ekong likely to feature for Watford in the Championship. So I think it's best I drop it now... It is my own take

I will take it department by department.


1. Defence.


Maduka Okoye, GK: (Vs Algeria and Tunisia)

Before his first full start for the Super Eagles on the 9th against Algeria, Maduka had only been in goal for 27mins when he came on as a sub against Brazil last year.

Maduka had two very good games in goal. The two goals he conceded during the international break were down to no fault of his and when called upon he responded, giving as good as he's got.

His key highlight was that very fine stop against Algeria from a direct free kick situation.
His agility in goal in also noticeable but he is sure to be much better tested with time.

He is yet to bag action in the Eredivisie this season but he has been active for the Sparta reserves to keep him match fit as he plays backup for now to Van Leer.



Leon Balogun, CB: (Vs Algeria and Tunisia)

Leon was heads and shoulders above any central defender we paraded in the two games. He delivered a masterful libero performance. His interceptions were clean. His tacklings were neat. But the best of it all was the ease, class and style with which he brought the ball out from the back. His ball playing skills were better than even Midfielders like Mikel Agu and new boy, Frank Onyeka.
At some points he acted as the ball carrier travelling from the back through the Midfield reaching as far the final third. Aside Iwobi, no other Midfield player on show carried the ball forward like Leon in the two games. Yet Leon is no Midfielder but a defender. He is the libero of the team at the back. Indeed our dean of defence.

At 32, Leon's still our best CB and he showed it in these two Friendlies. Now this is interesting especially when we consider that he wasn't even a starter at our last major tournament last year at the Afcon. Omeruo and Ekong were the first choice CBs.




Troost Ekong, CB: (Vs Algeria)

Ekong remains a key player in defence and while he did okay in other defensive aspects such as marking, tackling and interceptions; he was absolutely horrible in his passing. Well, passing has always been a kind of weakness for Ekong but during the international break, it was really on show. It was worse than he showed at the Afcon last year.

Ekong was also at fault for the goal we conceded against Algeria. He should have been first to that aerial ball won by Bensaibaini who went on to tap in the rebound.

Actually, Ekong and Onuachu both went for the ball and missed it entirely. That was really poor aerial defending from both players considering their heights and most especially from Ekong who is quite normally good aerially.

In the end, he has had better days than the 9th of October.




Zaidu Sanusi, LB: (Vs Algeria and Tunisia)

Before the international break, I made a small prediction that one of the debutants will emerge from the friendlies as the one player that really Shone bright. Well, it turned out to be FC Porto new boy, Zaidu Sanusi. He wasn't 10/10 ofcos but he was certainly one of the top performers of the international break for the Super Eagles.

On his debut, this lad was up against one of the most elite wingers in African football and in the EPL, Riyad Mahrez, and he absolutely pocketed him.

His pace and strong defending gave Mahrez a hellish time on that wing. At a point Mahrez had to even foul Zaidu after Zaidu had again robbed him of the ball and was about to take off on one of his dashing runs down the left flank.

Apart from his defending, he was also very good in the attacking phases. One of his crosses in the Algeria game found Onuachu and caused chaos in the box but Paul Onuachu failed to bury the chance. Zaidu was first to every damn ball on the left flank and was practically the one others had to play catch-up to as he was "uncatchable" when in full sprint.

Against Tunisia, his crossings weren't as good as seen in the Algeria game but he will certainly get better with that for the team. In Zaidu, we have a lad who can easily cover the defensive and attacking phases of our game on the left without breaking a sweat b'cos he got the bloody speed to make it happen.

Zaidu is certainly an upgrade on Collins but Collins remain in the picture as backup and competition for now too. Our LB looks sorted but time will tell more.




Tyronne Ebuehi, RB: (Vs Algeria)

It was so good and so refreshing to see Ebuehi on the right again. He delivered a very decent performance for one returning to the team after being in the Injury wilderness for 2 years+.

Ebuehi showed glimpses of his ability in the defensive phases and showed some sparks in the attacking phases too. He even came close to getting a goal with fine low strike that missed the target by few meters.

He had a good battle against the 2019/2020 EFL Championship best player in Said Benrahma (close to a move to EPL side, West Ham according to reports) and he wasn't fazed at all. Ebuehi got some tackles in and blocks off. His marking and pressing also looked decent and I believe with much more games in the Eredivisie, he will look even more sharper and daring.

Ebuehi is here to stay and it is truly gonna be a sweet interesting battle at RB involving him, Ola Aina and the incoming Kingsley Ehizibue of FC Koln.

RB issues sorted also. Awaziem remains an option here too as he is at CB but he would be the only "adaptable." The other three are naturals.





Kevin Akpoguma, RB/CB: (Vs Algeria and Tunisia)

Kevin looked a bit overwhelmed when he came on against Algeria. But who can blame him? A CB coming on for his international debut against the African Champs into an unfamiliar role. And yes, Unfamiliar, b'cos RB and RWB are not the same thing. Not all RBs can function well as RWBs and not all RWBs can play as RBs.

Akpoguma, a natural CB, played as RWB against Bayern in the Bundesliga and have been playing there for a while since the new season began in Germany.

With that said, he did put in a few tackles and blocks against Algeria and ended on a mild okay note for his debut... but against Tunisia, we saw him in two different roles.
First at RB, where he looked decent and helped in keeping the Nigerian defence in sync with the team's high press from the front against the crafty and "rugby-like" Tunisians (yes,Rugby-like... These Tunisians bagged about four yellows or so for various kinds of rough plays).

Then at CB, where he took up the position vacated by Leon after he was subbed out for Awaziem who came and filled in at RB.

So the remainder of the game saw Kevin at LCB and he looked okay and somewhat assured on the ball when he tried to venture forward into Midfield a bit although he did give away possession a couple of times. He had a somewhat mixed showing in that "Balogun role" (I can call it that coz Leon set the standard for the role, at least in this break, for the two games).

I must add that he does look good and dangerous aerially from setpieces also (especially cornerkicks).

In all, it was nice to see him getting minutes but he would definitely have to do more if he is to displace the "experienced" guard of Leon, Ekong and Omeruo.

Kevin is a decent enough addition so far but I am afraid not "significantly" better than the others. He can compete and get better with the team but with the likes of Jordan Torunarigha of Hertha Berlin coming in the nearest future, and with Uduokhai and Adarabioyo to follow at any point in the near future, Kevin will have to step up to the NT learning curve quicker.
Five CBs is depth already..... But when the others come in at any point in the future, it would be a "8 CBs-depth scenario"and that would be one hell of a mega competition.




Kenneth Omeruo, CB: (Vs Tunisia)

Ken may indeed be at fault for the goal conceded against Tunisia but he gave an assured performance overall.

His passing was good, his confidence on the ball at the back a delight but his only bleep up was in the first half where he should really have done better in the box in keeping out Mohamed Drager. I would also call in Kevin Akpoguma for a small blame who was meant to be tracking Rafia who gave the pass from Kevin's position but Omeruo should most definitely have EASILY intercepted that ball off Drager's feet for a corner at the very worst. But I guess the over-carefulness of not wanting to foul the player and concede a penalty affected his quickness to do the right thing.

Omeruo is good at reading the game, a fine tackler, has strong aerial ability and a decent passer but he can be quite indecisive in his marking in his own box. 'Must have that checked.

In all, he did very okay against Tunisia and didn't lose possession as much.



Jamilu Collins, LB: (Vs Tunisia)

Entered the fray for Zaidu who picked up a knock in the 66th min and acquitted himself well. He carried on from where Zaidu stopped in the defensive phases of our play but didn't do much going forward. Won most of his duels too. Overall, a decent display.

I think Collins would now play backup to Zaidu going forward. Our LB role is good to go and can get even better.




Chidozie Awaziem, RB: (Vs Tunisia)

Came in for the impressive Balogun against the Carthage Eagles and slotted in nicely at RB which moved Akpoguma to CB. No surprise there as he was quite good in the role at the Afcon. His ball playing skills and passing on show again and his ability to snuff out dangers always one to notice. He had a very decent 33 mins+ and remains in the picture of things in the RB role and CB role as a young quality cover still growing.

October International Break Review: Super Eagles - Part 2


2. Midfield.

Alexander "The Great" Iwobi: (Vs Algeria and Tunisia)

I intentionally added "The Great" b'cos he was absolutely marvellous for us in the two games. Absolutely put up a masterful and really workaholic display in the middle of the park. Had the most throughballs, gave the most key passes, held on to the ball to relieve pressure on the team and carried the ball forward with class.

He showed why he is the team's orchestra conductor and akin to a master director of our plays. He showed he is becoming a leader and one who can carry the burden of the team's creative plays going forward. Iwobi had been so disrespected on this thread and on the lips of several Nigerian fans that they have failed to see what a player he has become over these past months.

Iwobi worked so hard during the break.

Vs Algeria, even when our midfield plays struggled with Onyeka still having cold feet in his unfamiliar role and Semi Ajayi looking a little shaken in his role at DM giving the ball away with so much ease, Iwobi took it upon himself to drop even deeper to pick up the ball and do the ball carrying which was meant to be Onyeka's job for the game. Iwobi did the ball carrying, dropped deep at several points in the game and still had to make himself available between the opponents' defensive lines to try create some interplays with the wingers or marauding Fullbacks (e.g. Zaidu) or set up Onuachu with a "ball-to-feet" pass which he executed on about two-three major occasions but which Onuachu failed to control properly.

Iwobi was everywhere in Midfield against Algeria and even had a sight of goal with a fine shot that flew just inches wide off the goalie's right hand post.

Vs Tunisia, He continued from where he stopped. He joined in the high press and kept our plays ticking in Midfield. His workrate and passing also on display and he even got so passionate in the game he stood up for a teammate who was tackled harshly by the Tunisians.

Iwobi truly emerged from this break further establishing himself as the Linchpin in Nigeria's attacking plays. By November, when he would have the usual first team personnel alongside/around him bar Ndidi, it will become even more monstrous.

Iwobi is truly "The Great".




Semi Ajayi, DM: (Vs Algeria and Tunisia)

He was the man saddled with the responsibilities of screening our back four in both game. Seems like Rohr is looking to him to fill in for Ndidi ahead of the Afcon qualifiers next month as Ndidi isn't expected back to action till December (or earliest Late Nov). But time will reveal if Semi would be the one to play DM come November.


Vs Algeria, Semi struggled in his role but did good in winning all aerial balls and putting in some tackles. He also made a few clearances.
His passing was not assured in the role and herein was his struggle. He only tried to win balls and clear... He hardly settled to quickly scan and pick the right passes. He was in a hurry to get the ball off his feet. Now this is where the newly improved version of Ndidi at Leicester was sorely missed. Ajayi didn't bring that enforcer command to the role.
Well, it's been a while he played the role to be fair (think back to Rotherham) and he is naturally a CB too.


Vs Tunisia, Semi fared kinda better. He hassled and marked out the Tunisian attackers/midfielders. He pressed/counter pressed really well... There was even a point in the game he pressed a Tunisian player all the way from Midfield to the touchline. Showed good energy and disciplined policing in that very moment.
And this time, he did try to keep things smooth and simple. He wasn't exactly in a such a big hurry to release the ball unlike the Algeria game. This time he picked out those simple short passes to his advanced central players in Nacho, Iwobi and the wingers and just focused on his defensive duties in front of the back four. He was very much okay especially in his passing against Tunisia compared to the Algeria game.




Now I believe even Etebo would have played this role better than Ajayi had he showed up but time will tell what Rohr's plans are for the DM role come November against Sierra Leone home and away.
With Ndidi out, it is likely to be Semi (probably explains why Rohr featured him in same role twice this break) or Etebo (he covers for CM and DM but is mainly a CM for the side) or someone else (unlikely).

In all, time will tell.




Frank Onyeka, CM: (Vs Algeria)

Frank Onyeka, a natural DM, made his international debut in an unfamiliar role. He was tasked to be the ball carrier/CM and he struggled in that role coz he is not used to performing this ball carrying role from his normal DM position. He is a good passer of the ball a shown in the few moments he saw the ball and is also a willing runner as shown in his ability to get forward and win a few balls, intercept and pass to his nearest man but his primary duty on the day as a Makeshift CM was not performed and that is why our midfield plays struggled.
And the answer was certainly not Mikel Agu. Gosh! Agu was worse than Onyeka in that primary function.

In all, he only showed flashes in the latter part of the first half when we were piling on the pressure but in the game's first 20-25mins, he struggled badly. He remains a very decent DM and one to look at again at any time going forward. He is young and still growing.




Mikel Agu, CM - Double pivot: (Vs Algeria)

This guy was annoying to watch. I don't know what some saw but what I saw was not pleasing at all.
Now I won't totally blame him b'cos he is naturally a destroyer DM who delights in sitting in front of a defence and chasing dangers and marking them out. But against Algeria, Rohr brought him in to play CM or perform a kind of double pivot with Semi Ajayi (DM for the day) after Frank (who played makeshift CM) was subbed out.
Agu held on to the ball too much at times and he drew unnecessary close marking to himself with his constant laborious hugging of the ball when a simple turn and pass would suffice. Believe me, it was not pleasing to watch b'cos he didn't do the required job well. But what else can I expect from a "Jam body" destroyer DM? Lol




Samson Tijani: (Vs Algeria)

Replaced Iwobi very late in the AM role. For a CDM, that was a big ask but he acquitted himself quite well.

He may have played only five mins+ of the Algeria tie but he showed composure, fearlessness and calm in that short time. His passing was assured and he marked well. Really put his body about and showed glimpses of the ball carrying Agu failed to do when he came on. He even had a crack on goal with a long range effort that went over the bar. Tijani is one for the future and with more gametime in the Austrian Bundesliga where he is a sure starter, he would only get better.

Did I touch a spot with my balderdash of Juve as you so put it?


Lemme ask you one simle question, If Osimhen had not been a Napoli Player, what would you had said about the matter

TheSuperNerd:
And you have Juventus' players on your wall or what? Why do you persist with the balderdash of Juventus being innocent?? Why so keen to absolve them of any blame? Stop with your silly defense biko. It is not making any kind of good sense at all. A club followed strict health protocols in the wake of the pandemic Covid and you are here talking like you are Juve's attorney and not even making good sense in their defence. Funny.

mostob:
So Serie A awarded3 points and 3 goals to Juventus.
And the 3 goals directly goes to......you know who already.
what a joke!

Dem award 3 point mean say dem go award 3 goals to any of the player ?

andrewbaba44:


Dem award 3 point mean say dem go award 3 goals to any of the player ?

That was my previous thought but i don't think there is something like that sha.

mostob:
Then the NFF should show them the middle finger too if they have an ounce of dignity. It is not as if they are playing an important role for us especially the English lads. I mean Uzoho, Awaziem, Omeruo, Sanusi,Ndidi,Etebo, Chukwueze, Osimhen, Kalu, Simon are not born abroad but they are the main backbone of the squad. Credit to Ekong ,Leon,Alex and Tyronne though.
There is nothing bad in approaching those FBs but the moment they reject our offer, we should move.

Beggers aren't choosers

Even though we aren't really begging these players though, they are obviously more advertsed (English media and all) than any player that will come out of Nigeria and Africa and like it or not we will always lean to foreign born players even though we don't like to admit it.

And that won't change for a while as long as the average football fan in Nigeria would rather see an EPL match than our Football league matches

Karlovich:
I noticed from yesterday's game that most of our players like showboating, in situations where a simple pass to someone in a better position could lead to a goal, they just mess things up. I doubt Ejuke would have tried that nonsense he did yesterday at his clubside, they were times when Dessers was through on goal but Iheanacho tried to take defenders on his own or attempt to take the shot himself. Rohr needs to hammer in these player's head that they are not 11 year olds.

Ejuke does this at his club side week in, week out.

Edopesin:


Beggers aren't choosers

Even though we aren't really begging these players though, they are obviously more advertsed (English media and all) than any player that will come out of Nigeria and Africa and like it or not we will always lean to foreign born players even though we don't like to admit it.

And that won't change for a while as long as the average football fan in Nigeria would rather see an EPL match than our Football league matches

Ok. .but we are not beggars

Since CAF won’t take initiative to step up and challenge the nations league, our only hope is too match the number of matches an average League A team plays over the international break, which is two (or more). Doesn’t matter the opposition - getting suitable, world class opposition is already a Herculean task for our match maker. Just get the dudes playing together very often like their European counterparts.

mostob:
This is what I saw o.
According to a report I have seen, Saka has been dismissed from the England team
due to Southgate describing him as a striker and as such was unlikely to play due
to the number of players of greater ability in front of him.
Has anyone heard anything, it has been a shock that Niles is regarded as being a
better prospect for England.
Saka was given no favours in the England match as the player behind constantly
chose to send the ball to the other side of the pitch.
There is a perception within the games reporters and managers, that, despite
beating the top two English teams and giving gritty performances ,that Arsenal
and it's players are sub standard ,and that teams who's players have lost games by
numerous goals,are somehow better than Arsenal's. Saka is a prime example, he
was not regarded by the other players as part of the team.
Culled
Sky Sports

. this should teach some of these guys lesson esp that eberechi. Anyway I don't even send the guy again not with recent iwobi performance and possible ejaria switch.

daveP:
Yeah. Victor should break that Record easily. Nacho follow up close too.

Thats if both score 3/year for the next decade. That should do!!

I don't know about nacho, but I would stick my head for osihmen... Yekini self try... (just googled it)37 goals in 58 matches, damn that's some beast record... Wow... Well this generation ain't no joke...

Modified- I still dey FOH for this Yekini record, 37 goals in 58 matches, omo, that's like he scores in most matches... Damn what a striker the OG's had in that era... Dependable striker... Na him I pray make osihmen be for our era...

mostob:
That was my previous thought but i don't think there is something like that sha.

Just 3 points only

Too bad for Seria A

daveP:
Who else is hearing the Saka debacle?

I searched everywhere, I can't find any debacle... But something spinned in my head, "I be like, maybe Saka knew what's good for his career, he con calculate am well and figured it's better for him to soar and be free like an eagle, than a caged lion...


I will unashamedly grab Saka if he is still available, that's some mad talent for the SE...

jihday:
it's not bias, they are actually crap. Dele have been dropped, will you say it's bias? Name the ones you think deserved a longer stay with the 3 lions make we see

Easy na. lol

Anyways i guess they self belief is high. Good for them sha.

Bolowolowo:
Since CAF won’t take initiative to step up and challenge the nations league, our only hope is too match the number of matches an average League A team plays over the international break, which is two (or more). Doesn’t matter the opposition - getting suitable, world class opposition is already a Herculean task for our match maker. Just get the dudes playing together very often like their European counterparts.

The nation league thing is a good idea,but it can't really work in Africa unless some things change...
For starters, the AFCON is still being held every 4 years.. I don't see how we can fit AFCON qualifier, AFCON, world cup qualifier and world cup itself into a 4 years schedule... certainly not possible..
Again,a lot of African countries don't have the funds to partake in the league... The major reason why most African countries hardly play friendlies is due to lack of funds... We have seen situations were some countries withdraw from qualifiers..
If at all Africa should have a nations league I will suggest that;
1) the AFCON should be moved to 4 years to accommodate the nations league
2) Absolutely only the countries that indicate interest to join should be included.. to avoid stories that touch

jihday:
as it is we have to wait for 4 more years before we can see our next U-23 in action. Imagine playing CCL games on Sat and Sunday night televised live with lots of fans brilliant football analyst and plenty hypes, every performing players will get easy invites to the NT, transfers to the top leagues in Europe and with time teams from west Africa will catch up with their north African counterpart

That thing is boring... the wait. maybe infuse u20in such a way that they play it and then 3yrs later rep at Olympics but still maintain 2yrs.


Tv issues is another bottleneck. Twil be cool to watch CCL games with English commentaries.

Starboytwo:
I don't know about nacho, but I would stick my head for osihmen... Yekini self try... (just googled it)37 goals in 58 matches, damn that's some beast record... Wow... Well this generation ain't no joke...

Modified- I still dey FOH for this Yekini record, 37 goals in 58 matches, omo, that's like he scores in most matches... Damn what a striker the OG's had in that era... Dependable striker... Na him I pray make osihmen be for our era...

Even if they can't break it, they should surpass the 2nd highest..... Odegbami with 23goals!!! Imagine!!?

I am in the medical field Mister man so this is not about whether Osimhen is at Napoli or Juventus. So my stance on this would be the same. Health first before selfish football interests!!! We are in a pandemic. Get that into your head okay. Merci.

do4luv14:






Did I touch a spot with my balderdash of Juve as you so put it?


Lemme ask you one simle question, If Osimhen had not been a Napoli Player, what would you had said about the matter

October International Break Review: Super Eagles - Part 3



3. Attack.

Ebere Paul Onuachu: (Vs Algeria)

The Goals King of Belgium. He is truly in form for club but that didn't translate to the Super Eagles in this break.

To be fair, he didn't get a mega-constant supply of crosses but also to be fair, some crosses did come in from Zaidu, Chukwueze and even Kalu.

Watching that game again reveals so much.
Zaidu delivered the best cross of the first half against Algeria which found Onuachu but the big man missed the target by whiskers.

Another one popped up via a corner kick taken by Chukwueze which found Onuachu again but it didn't lead to a goal.

And yet another via Samuel Kalu, after shifting his weight from side to side coupled with some feint works, who scooped a ball into the path of Onuachu's head but the big man failed to get there first.

Now you must understand that Kalu and Chukwueze are no crossing wingers. They are more inverted wingers who would rather cut in than make the run to the byline most times to deliver a cross. And their style was key to the kind of beautiful attacking displays we saw with Osimhen as the #9 against Ukraine.


Now Rohr said before the Algeria game that "Onuachu would have to adapt to the team's playing style and not the team adapting to Onuachu". So that tells us Onuachu was expected to provide a more expansive interpretation of the #9 role than he is used to at Genk where he features as the "Ultimate Targetman".


Now, in this light, what exactly describes Onuachu's performance against Algeria?
Would have to break them down...

✔Onuachu's hold up plays were poor at almost every phase of our attacking phases. For a target man, that was certainly a minus.
✔His linkup plays were also not very good and it affected the connection with his wingers and other supporting cast like Iwobi.
✔Onuachu won most of the aerials arrowed at him in the final third but he couldn't get them under proper control most times which led to him losing the balls multiple times.
✔In the defensive phases of our game, Onuachu's height did come in handy when it came to defending freekicks or corner kicks. He won about two headers from cornerkicks while defending but he was at fault along side Ekong for failing to get to that 6th mins ball that found Bensaibaini who tapped home the rebound from his own header.

✔Onuachu's pressing/counter pressing game was average if not below average. He is not exactly used to that at Genk but a number 9 for Nigeria must be able to press well. Onuachu didn't deliver enough in that aspect

✔The worst of all was Onuachu's lack of or poor movement in the final third. There were many times, he simply didn't attack the space in the box or run into space or open up for a possible pass or quick cross when the ball was in the possession of either Iwobi, Chuks, Kalu or Simon.
Onuachu wasn't mobile enough to cause chaos with his movements. Something Osimhen does with mega ease.

With all these said, he is a decent player. A target man that thrives off constant "ball-to-leg" or "ball-to-head" passes or crosses for him to bury or hit in. He isn't mobile enough to attack spaces to create possible goal mouth actions but he expects that you will find him with passes around his limited axis of motion.

Are his Super Eagles days over? Time will tell but he certainly didn't cover himself in Glory this international window.




Samuel Kalu: (Vs Algeria)

He had only one half in the game and he was a constant threat on the ball. His one truly bad moment was when he ballooned the ball to the sky after some fancy footwork to work out space for an angled shot. But aside that, he was always a threat and combined well with Zaidu on the left. His dribbling, feints and legwork worked out space for Zaidu to run into on a few occasions to put in a few crosses.

Kalu also recorded one of Nigeria's shots on goal with an angled drive from the left after cutting in but it settled into the hands of Oukidja.

He pulled a hamstring later on due to constant hasslings by the Algerian defenders trying to keep up with his trickery. Fitness has been a challenge for Kalu recently and I hope he fixes it for good. In all, a very decent showing from the winger in the break.



Samuel Chukwueze: (Vs Algeria and Tunisia)

Vs Algeria (First half): His major highlights of this half were beating Bensebaini twice with his quick pace and fancy footwork AND his precise corner delivery that found Onuachu. Apart from these, it was all running, dribbling and no end product. Most times he tried to overdo the trickery even when marked out by two Algerians almost everytime he had the ball.
His decision making let him down multiple times in this half and even in the second half.

Vs Algeria (Second half): No improvements on the first and had to be rightly excused via substitution for Musa.

Vs Tunisia: His only major highlight of the 77 mins+ he spent on the pitch before making way for Ejuke was his slalom-like dribble run where he beat about two-three Tunisian markers before being brought down.

He did try to make things happen but his decision making majorly again became his enemy and he didn't exactly kick in into good gear.

Not forgetting too that he was kicked a few times by the Tunisians one of which was so bloody obvious and drew a strong reaction from Iwobi who stood up for Chuks. Even Maduka Okoye was not gonna miss that. He came all the way from goal. Oh the passion!

So in conclusion, it wasn't a very good international break for our wonder boy, Chuks. The Naija Robben had a poor showing overall and surely can do better than he displayed.



Moses Simon: (Vs Algeria and Tunisia)

vs Algeria (second half): To be honest, the attacking threat we saw from the Kalu-Zaidu combo up and down our left wing went missing when Simon came on for Kalu who pulled a hamstring.
It was as if the left wing just went to sleep after Kalu went off. In this game, most of Simon's attempted dribbles were forced and he lost the ball a couple of times when trying to get past his markers.

Vs Tunisia (First half): His best half of the international break. Simon was easily the better winger on show as Chukwueze was dropping something close to a disasterclass on the other side. He pressed well, passed well and linked up very nicely with his forward players. He kept our attacking phases good on his wing and his movement was also a threat to the Tunisians.
His dribbling was also better and not as forced as seen in the Algeria game.


Vs Tunisia (second half): He fizzled out a bit but still showed up in certain moments.

Overall, he had a much better showing against Tunisia.



Kelechi Iheanacho: (Vs Algeria and Tunisia)

Came on against Algeria and held the ball well upfront and provided the linkup plays Onuachu was lacking in same role.
His pressing was also decent and he had a chance to equalise from a tight angle in the final minute of the tie from a difficult freekick but missed by inches.

Against Tunisia, we saw a much better Iheanacho although he could have done better with the penalty and with a chance in the second half where he could have located Dessers before the Tunisian defender caught up to him quickly.

But on the overall, Nacho was very decent. His touches and passing good on the overall. Plus he took his goal very well. Holding off his marker superbly while controlling the Musa flick-on and turned beautifully to finish very nicely.
Also his pressing from the front alongside that of Iwobi, Musa and Simon were top notch most especially in that first half.




Ahmed Musa: (Vs Algeria and Tunisia)

Musa came on against Algeria and did the best he could to stretch the Algerian defence but it didn't exactly pay off so much.
Against Tunisia, he was much better and even flicked the ball nicely towards Nacho for the goal.
Musa's pace and quickness remains a good asset for the side but he looks likely to keep coming off the bench even as current Captain of the side.





Chidera Ejuke: (Vs Tunisia)

Chidera Ejuke came in for Samuel Chukwueze against Tunisia in the 77th min and dropped a "Wow"moment most Naija fans won't forget in a hurry.
The CSKA moscow lad completed six take-ons in just 12 mins of his debut.
In other words, he attained the highest take-ons in the game despite playing just 12 mins. Lol.

I understand from camp reports that Rohr had to call the lad one time and say, "Hey lad, you dribble too much"

Well, apart from his dribbling, we must also note his speed and his willingness to track back. But ofcos... It was his debut. He had to try impress.

Now, I know there are some that may try to talk down on his dribbling but those who have watched enough of Ejuke know the lad is not all about "just dribbling". He is another potential goals threat for the team and a creator too if used right. We have another special player on our hands in Ejuke and those 12 mins only gave us a glimpse of his abilities.

I expect more from him provided he is given chances by Coach Rohr especially in his preferred LW role. But from the way I see it, Ejuke may have to also function on the right as competition for Chukwueze before we can see him as a LW for the Super Eagles since Rohr also has Kalu and Simon on the left. There is also Ahmed Musa and outside the main team, we still have wingers like Onyekuru, Dennis Bonaventure (who is also adaptable as a CF sometimes), and a couple more.

In all, it's so good to finally have this special young ball wizard in the team.

Welcome to the team, Chidera.


Cyriel Kolawole Dessers: (Vs Tunisia)

Dessers "FINALLY" made his international debut. Truidstar's #CallUpDessers campaign that ran here about two years ago or so have finally seen its wish granted.

With that said, he didn't really get enough time to make a sound impression but his movements were very noticeable and quite an encouragement for future engagements. With time, he is expected to keep challenging for a place among the backup striker slots or even challenge for the Top 9 role. He has had a mixed opening to the new season so far but time will tell if last season's Eredivisie top scorer can rediscover his lethal form and push Onuachu more at Genk for the starting spot.

do4luv14:




Hmmm

I dont fault juve or the Fa, but the Authorities that prevent Napoli from taking of,

a call, or message to the Fa, about their stance, as we giving enought tangible reason, why the game should not hold, will do a lot of good to both sides

U don't fault them for attempting to break the law? Italy is right back to where they were at the hight of the pandemic and it's thanks to clowns like Juventus and the FA.

Here's the TOP 5 in the SE Goal ranking

1- Yekini 37 Goals 58 Caps

2- Odegbami- 23 Goals 46 Caps

3- Yakubu - 21 Goals 57 caps

4- ik uche - 19 Goals 46 Caps

5- Obagoal - 18 Goals 48 caps

Hahahahahah oga don take style dodge bullet


abeg no vex my waist just dey pain me yad yada, na wetin cos am, shey nah cos ah never dance atilogu, abi nah sugar, serious oo

TheSuperNerd:

I am in the medical field Mister man so this is not about whether Osimhen is at Napoli or Juventus. So my stance on this would be the same. Health first before selfish football interests!!! We are in a pandemic. Get that into your head okay. Merci.

I understand your point basco,

however the blame be on the FA Alone, cases like this are the exclusive right of the FA who runs the league and fi the fixture,

granted Juve bleep up by showing up,, the question is , If it had been Napoli thats at home, will Turin officials allow Juve to Travel there

BascoVanVeli:


U don't fault them for attempting to break the law? Italy is right back to where they were at the hight of the pandemic and it's thanks to clowns like Juventus and the FA.

October International Break Review: Super Eagles - Part 4 - Final Part.


Not played/not tested:

Ola Aina - DF (RB)

Matthew Yak - GK

Dele Alampasu - GK




4. The Coach.

Gernot Rohr

Well, I could spend pages talking about and analyzing every decision made during the two friendlies but I think it won't count for much because Rohr definitely "over-experimented" in a manner he has never before done.

In the absence of several top key players and First team lads, Rohr decided it was the best opportunity to look at a few players again (namely Onuachu) and experiment with a few formations (as seen with the weird 4-1-4-1 vs Tunisia where we featured only one natural midfielder in Iwobi) and with a few player role switches e.g. Semi Ajayi in DM, Akpoguma in RB, Iheanacho in a twin advanced midfield set-up with Iwobi infront of Semi Ajayi and behind Musa in the final third.


These friendlies were largely experimental with Rohr taking quite a couple of risks to test out the depth of the players available in camp. Most of the players that featured are players who would normally not start games plus six (6) of them were making their international debuts. But he also tested two players particularly with eyes on November: Maduka Okoye and Semi Ajayi. Another player he also tested with eyes on November was New Boy, Zaidu and he looks to have cemented his spot ahead of the Afcon Qualifiers next month.

On Maduka, Rohr went back on his words to possibly field Yakubu in one of the two games as he saw how impressive Maduka was in the Algeria game and wanted to build on that momentum ahead of the Afcon qualifiers. Uzoho is back in the Apoel Matchday squad but he is yet to feature so Rohr's contingency plan in case Uzoho isn't exactly ready by next month is Maduka Okoye. This explains why Rohr gave him the two games of the international break.

Now personally I would have loved to see Yak or Alampasu get minutes but I also understand why Rohr did what he did. He has eyes on Sierra Leone and don't want to be caught off guards as regards a GK decision if Uzoho or Akpeyi aren't ready by next month.

The only fault I have with Rohr as regards friendlies was not calling up Ramon Azeez from the standby list when Etebo was eventually ruled out. Ebuehi came in for Ndidi in the main list but Etebo had no replacement in the main list. Perhaps he wanted to actually see the adaptability of the natural DMs in Onyeka and Agu in the CM role or in a double pivot but their showings in the role beg the question on why a key backup player like Azeez was not called up.
I hope Azeez makes the November list because he is a better CM and ball passer than Mikel Agu and would also execute the CM role much better as a stand-in than Onyeka. Onyeka is a DM and Rohr should stick to inviting him only based on that role going forward.


In all, the break gave Rohr a rare chance to try out new combinations and to finally give Onuachu his chance again.
Look at the set-up against Tunisia: We started that game with Five attacking players in Chukwueze, Simon, Musa, Iheanacho and Iwobi.

Iheanacho and Iwobi acted as the advanced central midfield players with Nacho much more advanced behind Musa and Iwobi occupying the central midfield spaces to link up the play while Ajayi sat behind that attacking five and did his defense duties quite admirably.
It was a risky set-up that had only one natural midfielder in Iwobi as Ajayi himself is a CB, but it paid off b'cos the five atacking players did a fine job maintaining a high press and giving the Tunisians not so much comfort in the middle.

I think Rohr may have picked one or two things from such a daring experimental gamble but believe me, he will not try this to the extent he did with the full complement of our squad in a competitive fixture. Him no fit!

In all, Rohr did okay testing all of the players except the other two goalies and Ola Aina who happens to be another Key player in the battle for the RB slot.

In November, Rohr is expected to be back to his "business-as-usual" first team killer side but he would be without the services of Midfield anchor, Ndidi. This explains why he gave Semi the time he did in that DM role. Time will tell what his decision will be on who take on the role come November.

I score Rohr 5.9/10 for the October International break.


-The End-