Five Observations From Super Eagles 1-1 Draw With Tunisia

Izuchukwu Okosi presents five things noticed in the game.

1. Rohr's In game Management

Super Eagles head coach Gernot Rohr has had his fair share of criticisms as many Nigerians question his decisions.

The Franco German brought on Chidozie Awaziem in place of Leon Balogun. That saw Kevin Akpoguma shift to central defence after the Hoffenheim defender seemed to have jarred his knee.

It will be nice to hear the thinking behind that move unless the fitness of the new boy has something to do with it.

The coach still makes changes late in the matches rather than adapt to in-game situations. His substitutions are mostly predictable.

2. Ajayi's Defensive Midfield Role

West Brom defender Semi Ajayi once again played in the defensive midfield despite William Troost Ekong's absence.

That understandably has to do with the coming in of Kenneth Omeruo but the question is: would Ajayi's place in the first team be hampered when the likes of Wilfred Ndidi, Joe Aribo and Oghenekaro Etebo return to the fold?

Versatile players are assets to teams but they also suffer from identity issues. What's their best positions? This will be one to keep an eye on.

3. High Line By Eagles Defence

The Super Eagles kept a defensive high line in the second half which handed the Tunisians some goal scoring chances from counter attacking situations.

The coaches must work on this when the AFCON qualifiers come around in November.


4. Penalty Duties

Kelechi Iheanacho missed from 12 yards to deny the Super Eagles a likely win in the game. Thankfully this was a friendly and not a competitive match.

However Rohr must take away penalty duties away from him and hand it over to players who pay attention to details. Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi and Ahmed Musa for now merit that encomium.

5.  Ejuke To Bring More Threat Down Right Side

Chidera Ejuke is an exciting talent whose pace is frightening. His dribbles are great but he overdoes it sometimes.

His introduction to the team going forward means more threat and trickery from the right side of the Eagles attack possibly as Samuel Chukwueze's replacement from the bench as witnessed on Tuesday. The competition for places is getting more interesting.