The Super Eagles of Nigeria played out a goalless draw with the Taifa Stars of Tanzania in one of the African Nations Cup (Afcon) qualifiers.
In a 4-3-3 formation some of the players failed to sparkle as they picked up one point from a potential three. On this note we take a look at how the Super Eagles players rated against Tanzania.
Carl Ikeme: 9/10 – The new invitee was outstanding in goal on his debut as he made important saves to keep Nigeria in the game. His aerial strength was vital as he won all aerial balls with accurate timing to keep a famous clean sheet.
He was very calm on the ball and ensured safety at the back as the game ended 0-0. Undoubtedly, Nigeria’s Man of the Match.
Solomon Kwambe: 5 – Kwambe, who deputized for Balogun at right back, was jittery on some occasions.
He made one or two good crosses into the box but was found wanting in defence.
Kenneth Omeruo: 7 – He had to stand up and be counted for this one, given the inexperienced stoppers, at international level, that partnered him. He passed that test with flying colours.
The young centre half grew into the game and made important blocks. He guided the ball to safety late in the game and marshalled the defense as expected.
William Troost-Ekong: 5 – Partnered Omeruo in central defense but was jittery on many occasions.
He easily lost the ball in defense but was lucky the Tanzanians did not lace up their scoring boots properly yesterday.
Kingsley Madu: 6 – The left back had a moderate game, passed the ball well to the wingers but was slow in possession and did not make much run as he lacked services from the midfield.
Obiora Nwankwo: 6 – Passed the ball around and was good as he shielded well under pressure. Lacked intensity in his game as the midfield failed to coordinate.
Izunna Uzochukwu: 5 – Was so jittery on his debut. Made some wrong passes and was slow in possession but was handy as he covered spaces in midfield.
Lukman Haruna: 4 – Haruna was poor on his return to the Super Eagles as he failed to mark and inspire from the midfield and was taken off for enterprising debutant Sylvester Igboun.
Moses Simon: 7 – The young winger was good and full of running in the first period, was tricky as he won some fouls but his final ball let him down.
Was weary in the second half and made way for Emem Eduok in attack.
Emmanuel Emenike: 6 – The striker lacked services in attack and resorted to the flanks. He was bullish in attack and made an impact from the right wing but lacked options when he pumped forward to deliver crosses.
Ahmed Musa: 6 – Was jittery with the armband in the game. Made poor passes particularly to Emenike but brilliant pace to get past defenders to shoot from the left angle as Emenike released him with a pass.
Substitutes
Sylvester Igboun: 7 – Desperate Oliseh introduced Sly nine minutes before the interval when his midfield collapsed. He was good in possession but could not do it alone, especially on his (away) debut.
Anthony Ujah: 6 – The Werder Bremen striker lacked the services to thrive on as the midfield lacked coordination as he endured another game without a goal for the Super Eagles.
Emem Eduok: 6 – The forward came on to add bite to the attack and he did that moderately well even though services were lacking from the middle of the park.
He dropped in search of the ball and helped out Omeruo on occasion. Was comfortable on the ball too.
