In what is expected to be a straightforward encounter for the Super Eagles in the AFCON Qualifiers clash against Sao Tome and Principe, the Nigerian team will be aiming to assert themselves and close out their group in the first position.
The last time both teams met, it was an emphatic 10-nil victory in favor of Nigeria, which saw Victor Osimhen score four times.
Even though Nigeria is already assured of a spot in the 2023 AFCON, it’s important to close out the group with a win.
The New Boys
Interestingly, after it was revealed that Manager Jose Peseiro took a pay cut to extend his contract with the Super Eagles until February 2024, the manager also invited three new players for the first time: Victor Boniface, Gift Orban, and Jordan Torunarigha.
Unfortunately, Gift Orban will not be able to make his debut due to a muscle injury sustained in training, but, Victor Boniface will be expected to be given a run, especially given how in-form the striker is.
He has scored five goals in four games in Germany for Bayer Leverkusen.
Despite earlier declaring interest to play for Germany over Nigeria, 26-year-old Jordan Torunarigha is now set to follow in the footsteps of his father and wear the green and white jersey.
Jose Peseiro’s AFCON Ambitions
Jose Peseiro has always made public his desire to lead Nigeria to her first AFCON trophy since the late Stephen Keshi led the charges to achieve the feat in 2013.
Notably, his contract expires just after the AFCON tournament early next year, and a renewal will largely depend on whether he is able to keep his promise of winning the trophy for Nigeria.
Raining Goals against Sao Tome
The last time both teams played, it was a goal-fest as Nigeria tore apart Sao Tome and Principe, 10-nil.
Every fan in Uyo who will be in attendance for the clash will be hoping for more of the same.
Victor Osimhen, particularly, will be licking his lips at the sight of the Sao Tome defense, after all, he scored four of his seven AFCON Qualifiers goals against them in the first leg.
Taiwo Awoniyi and Victor Boniface will also be looking at the prospect of finding the back of the net when given the opportunity to feature.
