By Akinwale Kasali
The Super Eagles of Nigeria became the first Nation to qualify for the knockout stage at the on-going 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), championship in Egypt.
The Super Eagles defeated the Syli Nationale of Guinea 1-0, thanks to a header by Leganes football club defender, Kenneth Omeruo.
The Coach Gernot-Rohr tutored team recorded another successive 1-0 triumph in Alexandria to book their place in the round of 16.
The team line-up saw some changes, with captain, John Mikel Obi, Villarreal midfielder, Samuel Chukwueze and Paul Ebere Onuachu dropped from the starting line up, and were replaced by Odion Ighalo, Ahmed Musa and, Moses Simon.
The Syli Nationale of Guinea proved their mettle as no push over by foiling several forays made to their goal area by the Eagles. It took over 70 minutes before the Guinean goalkeeper, Diarra Kone, was subdued.
The Super Eagles match against Madagascar in their third group match will just be mere formality, as they have already secured qualification.
Since AFCON 2006 held in Egypt, Nigeria has not recorded a back-to-back victory in the group stage of the African showpiece. This was, however, a ‘de ja vu’ in the land of the Pharaohs.
At AFCON 2006, the Super Eagles defeated Ghana, Senegal and Zimbabwe to record Nine points and, topped the log at the tournament. A repeat of such outing in the group stage seems in the offing.
