By Akinwale Kasali
The preparation of the Super Eagles for the African Cup of Nations Championship in Côte d’ Ivoire intensified in Dubai, United Arab Emirates but the team suffered a setback following a 2-0 loss to fellow Tournament Team, Syli Nationale Of Guinea.
The Warm-up match played at the Bani Yas Stadium, Abu Dhabi, Monday afternoon, saw Coach Jose Peseiro using a second string of his 25-Man Team to the Championship with Napoli of Italy Striker, Victor Osimhen and first choice Goalkeeper, Francis Uzoho left out.
Also left out of the starting line up was Alex Iwobi, Oluwasemilogo Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Bruno Onyemaechi, Joe Aribo and Frank Onyeka.
The Guineans took the lead in the 14th minute. In the 20th Minute, Nantes Football Club of France midfielder, Moses Simon failed to convert from the penalty spot as the Guinea Goaltender saved the spot kick.
In the 64th minute, the Guineans grabbed a second to double their lead.
Peseiro made multiple changes to the team with Calvin Bassey replacing Kenneth Omeruo, Alex Iwobi replacing Raphael Onyedika and Frank Onyeka coming in for Chidozie Awaziem.
Three more changes were made in the 83rd minute as captain Ahmed Musa replaced Samuel Chukwueze, Joe Aribo took the place of Alhassan Yusuf and Ademola Lookman came in for Moses Simon.
The changes, however, could not do much as Guinea held on to their lead to take a confidence-boosting win to AFCON in what was their last preparatory match for the competition.
Last weekend, precisely on Sunday, the Super Eagles defeated a local Dubai team 12-0 in a friendly at their Abu Dhabi training facility, which was played behind closed doors.
The Eagles who showcased their dominance throughout the match, displayed exceptional teamwork and skill, and led 6-0 at half-time.
Ademola Lookman scored four goals while Victor Osimhen bagged a brace.
Substitute Moses Simon scored twice with Sadiq Umar and Ahmed Musa getting a goal each.
Two own goals from their opponents completed the rout for Nigeria.
The Super Eagles are expected to fly in to Lagos on Tuesday as they prepare to hit Cote D’Ivoire where the AFCON will be taking place.
