Following Nigeria’s hard-fought 3-2 triumph over Sierra Leone in the penultimate match of the 2023 AFCON qualifiers held in Liberia, defender Kenneth Omeruo has acknowledged the importance of enhanced focus as the team advances to next year’s tournament in Ivory Coast.
Omeruo, who captained the Eagles in the game against the Leone Stars, faced criticism from fans for his performance in the heart of the defense, particularly in the lead-up to the goals conceded by Nigeria.
Despite surrendering a two-goal lead, Omeruo’s blushes were saved by substitute Kelechi Iheanacho, who scored a late winner to secure Nigeria’s qualification with a 3-2 victory.
This performance followed a lackluster 1-0 loss to Guinea-Bissau in Abuja back in March, although Omeruo was an unused substitute in that game.
“It was a difficult match, and we knew they would fight for the opportunity to qualify. However, I’m pleased that we remained composed and emerged victorious,” Omeruo stated after the game.
Emphasizing the significance of concentration, he added, “The game could have been settled in the first half, but we must always stay focused until the end. We strive to drive the team forward from the back, and losing our focus could result in conceding more goals.”
With their place secured in Ivory Coast, the Super Eagles will regroup in September for their final qualifier against Sao Tome and Principe.
In the reverse fixture of the encounter held in Morocco last year, Nigeria claimed an impressive 10-0 victory.
