Five observations from Super Eagles disappointing 2-0 loss to Guinea in pre-AFCON friendly 

Nigeria suffered a disappointing  2-0 loss to Guinea in a pre-Africa Cup of Nations friendly held behind-closed-doors at the Bani Yas Stadium Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates on Monday afternoon.

Atromitos F.C. midfielder Aguibou Camara and Bastia striker Facinet Conte.were on target for the Syli National while Moses Simon threw away a penalty in the first half.

Allnigeriasoccer.com presents five observations from the defeat. 

1. Peseiro switch to back three

Deviating from the 4-4-2 formation, the Super Eagles coach switched to a back three against Guinea to prepare for the AFCON tournament.

The Portuguese manager started with Troost-Ekong, Chidozie Awaziem, and Kenneth Omeruo as the central defenders, with Zaidu Sanusi and Bright Osayi-Samuel operating as wing backs.

The switch of formation is aimed at accessing different approaches at the AFCON. 

2. Super Eagles' defensive problems continue 

On Sunday, the Super Eagles secured a resounding victory against a local side in the United Arab Emirates, triumphing with a scoreline of 12-0, with Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen, and Sadiq Umar contributing to the scoresheet.

Nevertheless, Nigeria's defensive challenges persisted, as they failed to maintain a clean sheet in the four  matches leading up to this encounter.

This vulnerability in defense was evident in the game against Guinea, where Nigeria conceded two goals.

Addressing these defensive issues becomes imperative for Nigeria ahead of the tournament's commencement if they aspire to contend for the trophy.

3. Super Eagles lack creativity in midfield

The absence of creativity in Nigeria's midfield was evident as the coach chose to field the defensive-minded duo of Raphael Onyedika and Alhassan Yusuf. 

With the two players prioritizing defensive duties, the Eagles had to depend on the wings for their creative spark.

4. Osimhen missed, As Nigeria rues missed chances

Despite the midfield lacking creativity, Nigeria generated some opportunities but struggled to convert them in the absence of their target man, Victor Osimhen. 

Nantes winger Moses Simon missed a crucial chance from the penalty spot with Nigeria trailing by a goal. Despite having multiple opportunities throughout the game, Moses couldn't find the back of the net.

5. Nwabili starts in goal

Francis Uzoho was in goal against the UAE local side on Sunday, while Stanley Nwabili assumed the role of goalkeeper for Nigeria in the match against Guinea. 

Unfortunately, the game did not provide the ideal circumstances for the Lagos-born player to mark his return to the national team after an approximately two-year absence, as the Eagles conceded two goals.

Adeyemi Adewale

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