Peseiro raises concern over Akpoguma's head injury, gives Egyptian referee a piece of his mind
Published: March 25, 2023
Kevin Akpoguma faces a fitness test to make Nigeria's squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Guinea-Bissau at the Estádio 24 de Setembro, Bissau.
After suffering a blow to the head, Akpoguma was forced to be substituted in the 55th minute, with Semi Ajayi taking his place at the heart of defence.
The Hoffenheim star received a high boot from Guinea-Bissau striker Mama Balde and from the reaction of Victor Osimhen, it seemed the central defender suffered a serious injury.
Super Eagles manager Jose Peseiro confirmed as much, saying that the national team doctor is worried over the injury the former Germany youth international sustained in the second half, which saw his head bandaged before he left the pitch.
The Portuguese coach was frustrated with the performance of Mahmoud El Banna and insisted that the Egyptian referee made some questionable decisions during the match at the National Stadium in Abuja.
Asked to provide an update on Akpoguma's injury, Peseiro told reporters at the post-match press conference :"I spoke with the doctor now and the doctor is concerned about the problem because he is feeling pains in the head
"It was a red card offense but the referee issued a yellow card. There were two opportunities for us to be awarded a penalty.
"He gave five minutes additional time. Three minutes for our players to be substituted. Normally ten minutes should have been added. The Egyptian referee came here and didn't do a good job."
Kenneth Omeruo and Daniel Bameyi are the other central defenders named in the Nigeria squad and could be called upon if Akpoguma does not receive the medical green light to return to action on Monday.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
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