Nigeria 1-2 Uganda: Flying Eagles player ratings for the African games opening game loss
The Nigerian U-20 team faced off against the Uganda in their opening match at the Accra Sports Stadium. Despite a spirited effort, they were unable to avoid defeat, falling 1-2 following a late goal by the Hippos.
Flying Eagles players ratings:
Goalkeeper:
- Samuel James (6.8/10): Made key saves early in the game but could have done better for the second goal. Not a bad first national team game for the young goalie.
Defenders:
2. Daniel Bameyi (5.5/10): Started strongly but struggled as the game progressed, particularly against the Ugandan wingers. For a player who has a lot of experience playing at this level, Bameyi was below-par on Thursday night.
- Godwin Samson (6/10): Defended aerial balls well but like the other defenders, on most occasions preferred the long balls instead of playing out from the back, just maybe the coach asked for what we saw.
- Haruna Aliyu (5/10): Made some mistimed tackles and lacked composure on the ball.
- Ibrahim Abdullahi (5/10): Partly responsible for the first goal due to positional error.
Midfielders:
6. Nassir Mohammed (5.5/10): Provided defensive cover but lacked impact in attack before being substituted due to injury.
- Daniel Daga (6/10): Caused too many fouls and struggled to assert control in midfield like he always does. Hopefully he has a better second game because he is key to Nigeria’s midfield.
Forwards: 8. Sodiq Isiyaka (7.1/10): Looked lively throughout the game and scored Nigeria’s only goal. The teams best for the African games opener.
- Charles Agada (5.5/10): Showed glimpses of quality but lacked consistency in decision-making.
- Chibueze Izuogu (6/10): Impressive in the first half but faded as the game progressed. Maybe due to lack of supply as the team switch to long balls.
- Alonge Ibrahim (4/10): Had minimal impact and was substituted early in the second half.
Substitutes:
- Sulaiman Idris, Rabiu Abdullahi, Shola Oladunjoye, Kehinde Ibrahim, and Sunday Joseph: Came on as substitutes but made limited impact on the game.
While some players showed promise, overall, the team struggled to maintain consistency. Moving forward, improvements will be needed to bounce back in the tournament.
