- Super Eagles secure a dominant 12-0 victory against Al Gharbia FC in a training match in Abu Dhabi
- Ademola Lookman shines with four goals, while Victor Osimhen and Moses Simon each score twice, showcasing Nigeria’s strong offensive strategy
The Super Eagles dominated Al Gharbia FC, a local team based in Dubai, with a resounding 12-0 victory in a training match held in Abu Dhabi on Sunday.
Ademola Lookman stole the spotlight with an impressive four-goal performance, while Victor Osimhen and Moses Simon secured a brace each. Sadiq Umar and Ahmed Musa contributed one goal each, and the tally was completed with two own goals.
Calvin Bassey, along with substitutes Alex Iwobi and Bright Osayi-Samuel, showcased their skills as the Super Eagles demonstrated an aggressive offensive strategy, overpowering their opponent in a one-sided encounter.
Despite Al Gharbia FC playing in the third division and fielding a Nigerian midfielder, they were unable to withstand the onslaught from the Nigerian national team.
The official X account of Al Gharbia FC acknowledged the comfortable win for the Eagles and highlighted Coach Jose Peseiro’s satisfaction with his team’s multi-dimensional attack.
The post recognized that the real challenge for the Super Eagles would come on Monday when they face Guinea, another team bound for the AFCON, in their final warm-up game before heading to Lagos.
Key takeaways from the match included Victor Osimhen’s standout performance, affirming his readiness for the AFCON. Calvin Bassey exhibited composure in defense alongside Portugal-based Chidozie Awaziem. Substitutes Alex Iwobi and Bright Osayi-Samuel made significant contributions when introduced during the game.
Late substitution Alhassan Yusuf and NPFL representative Olorunleke Ojo, replacing the injured Wilfred Ndidi and starting goalkeeper Francis Uzoho, respectively, also played crucial roles. Ojo’s penalty save ensured a clean sheet for the team.
Coach Jose Peseiro strategically made several changes during the game, assessing all available options before the Super Eagles’ opening AFCON game against Equatorial Guinea next Sunday.
Notably, Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface and South Africa-based goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali did not participate, likely being rested ahead of the anticipated clash with Guinea.
The Super Eagles’ commanding victory serves as a promising prelude to the 34th edition of the AFCON, set to kick off on January 13 and conclude on February 11.