In a spectacular display of skill and dominance, the Super Eagles triumphed over Al Gharbia FC, a local team based in Dubai, with an astounding scoreline of 12-0 during a warm-up match in Abu Dhabi on Sunday.
News Agency of Nigeria reported that Ademola Lookman showcased his prowess by scoring four goals, while Victor Osimhen and Moses Simon secured a brace each. Sadiq Umar and Ahmed Musa also contributed a goal each, with two own goals completing the remarkable dozen-goal rout.
Calvin Bassey and substitutes Alex Iwobi and Bright Osayi-Samuel showcased stellar performances as the aggressive Super Eagles team relentlessly attacked their opponent’s defense in a decidedly one-sided encounter.
Al Gharbia FC, a team from the third division, featured a Nigerian midfielder in their lineup. The official X account of the team acknowledged the comfortable victory for the Eagles, noting Coach Jose Peseiro’s satisfaction with the team’s multifaceted attacking prowess.
While the warm-up against Al Gharbia was a resounding success, the Super Eagles face a more significant challenge on Monday against Guinea, another AFCON-bound team, in their final warm-up game before heading to Lagos.
Key observations from the match highlighted Victor Osimhen’s impressive overall play, affirming his readiness for the AFCON. Calvin Bassey displayed calm and collected defensive skills alongside Portugal-based Chidozie Awaziem. Substitutes Alex Iwobi and Bright Osayi-Samuel made a notable impact when introduced, contributing to the team’s commanding performance.
Late substitute Alhassan Yusuf and NPFL representative Olorunleke Ojo, who replaced Francis Uzoho in goal, further demonstrated the team’s depth. Ojo’s penalty save secured a clean sheet for the Super Eagles.
Coach Jose Peseiro strategically made numerous changes during the game, assessing all available options before the team’s opening AFCON game against Equatorial Guinea next Sunday. Notably, Victor Boniface and Stanley Nwabali were likely rested, not seeing action in preparation for the upcoming clash with Guinea.
As the 34th edition of the AFCON approaches, slated to kick off on January 13 and conclude on February 11, the Super Eagles’ formidable performance in their warm-up matches signals their readiness for the challenging tournament ahead.
