U20 AFCON : Quiet VAR and four other observations from Flying Eagles 1-0 win v Uganda

The Nigeria U-20 national team, Flying Eagles have booked their place in the semifinals of the CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt and also ensured they qualified for the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Indonesia.  

 

Ladan Bosso’s side defeated Uganda 1-0 on Thursday to ensure they reach the latter part of the tournament. 

 

All Nigeria Soccer here presents the takeaways from the match. 

1. Uganda's attack on Nigeria's right side 

 

The Ugandans attacked the Flying Eagles down the right hand side and Augistine Njoku had a torrid time dealing with the pace of Rogers Mugisha. 

 

It was even worse for Njoku when Ugandan captain Isma Mugulusi darted into space to form a 2 v1 situation against the Nigerian. 

 

Njoku however improved significantly in how he dealt with the pressure on the second. 

 

2. Flying Eagles chances 

 

Ibrahim Muhammad went closest to scoring more goals for Nigeria but was 'unlucky' not to have done so. 

 

However, it was through his industry that the team were gifted an own goal through Ibrahim Juma. 

 

Samson Lawal also had a chance to find a better placed Muhammad but elected to go for a long range shot that went off target. 

 

The Eagles must be clinical going forward. Thankfully, their lost chances hasn't cost the team a World Cup place. 

 

3. Quiet VAR

 

The Video Assistant Referee was used in the quarterfinals of the tournament but there was no major call by the system. 

 

One moment of panic however came in the second half when defender Benjamin Fredrick  had to clear the ball after initially almost having his arm touch the ball. 

4. Aniagboso Choice

 

Goalkeeper Chijioke Aniagboso once again was on goal and in fact was the captain of the team. 

 

The keeper was confident in goal albeit he needs to be decisive and be firmer in his handling of the ball. 

 

5. The Nigerian Supporters 

 

The Nigerian fans in the stands were vocal and the boisterous atmosphere was key in how good the team were on Thursday. 

 

 

Izuchukwu Michael

 

 

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