Jose Peseiro has commended the Nigerian Super Eagles after narrowly slipping into a 2-1 defeat against CONCACAF’s champions Mexico at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, United States.
Peseiro, having recorded his first loss in his first game for the Nigeria Senior men’s football team, caused by an unfortuitous own goal by Nigerian defender and captain, William Troost-Ekong, praised the team’s spirit and resilience.
He pointed out that four players from the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) that were included in the Super Eagles squad in their debut match, gave satisfactory performances.
Peseiro said, “Although we didn’t win last night, I am very proud of the boys. The team showed character and resilience. A special mention to the four NPFL players, who had the chance to debut with the national team.”
According to the Portuguese tactician, the players, who ply their trade in the Nigeria topflight division, proved that they are qualified to play for the Super Eagles in their various positions.
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Peseiro stressed that Katsina United Sani Faisal’s “versatility was commendable”, adding that Chiamaka Madu, who plays for Rivers United, was “impressive in the midfield”.
Furthermore, the coach noted that Enyimba’s striker, Victor Mbaoma, in the course of processing the match, has proven to be a reliable number 9, while Rivers United Ishaq Rafiu, top scorer in the NPFL, added value to the team.
Meanwhile, the President of Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick has commended Jose Peseiro for the quality of performance the Super Eagles processed against the North American side.
Amaju, in a statement reported by Sportswriter Adepoju Samuel, reposed his confidence in Peseiro adding that from what he saw from a makeshift team against a strongly assemble Mexican side, his choice of coach for the Super Eagles was the right one.
He said, “I like what I saw today and I have confidence that we have appointed the right coach that can restore the glory of the Super Eagles and make them start winning once more.
“I am happy with what we put up out there. It was the first time after the disappointment of the World Cup playoff and you can say this is a makeshift team, while Mexico had their full-strength squad out there,” he added.
The Trumpet reports that Nigeria tackle Ecuador in their next friendly fixture on Friday, June 3, 2022, at the Red Bull Arena, Harrison, New Jersey.
