Football fans in Abuja have lauded the Super Eagles impressive 2–0 victory over Algeria at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, describing the performance as dominant, disciplined and full of belief.
Nigeria secured the quarter-final win on Saturday at the Grand Stade de Marrakech, with goals from Victor Osimhen in the 47th minute and Akor Adam’s in the 57th minute, to seal a deserved passage into the semi-finals.
The victory had since strengthened public confidence in Head Coach, Eric Chelle, who recently marked one year in charge.
Chelle had been commended for transforming the Super Eagles into a cohesive, attacking, fearless and entertaining side.
Speaking in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja, fans and coaches in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) said Chelle had restored belief, identity and confidence to the national team.
Coach Abba Mohammed of Crown Step Football Academy, said Algeria posed little threat throughout the encounter.
“Algeria had no guts in this match at all. The Eagles played fantastically well and fully deserved the win. We dominated the game.
“I am proud of the Super Eagles. May Allah grant us victory in our next match with a convincing margin,” he said.
Coach Chinedu Kalu of Democrat Football Club, congratulated the team but called for caution ahead of the semi-final clash against hosts Morocco on Wednesday.
“We need to be careful of their counter-attacks, fast breaks, simulation in the 18-yard box and psychological tactics through provocation,” he warned.
Francis Opara, the Coach of Luba Football Club, expressed optimism that Nigeria would go all the way and lift the trophy.
“My wish is that we win this Nations Cup to assuage our absence from the World Cup.
“Morocco will not be an easy opponent. The stadium will be electrifyingly anti-Nigeria, but our boys must remain humble, disciplined and united,” he said.
He also singled out Alex Iwobi for praise. “Iwobi has quietly made a huge difference. His deep-lying midfield role, similar to Andrea Pirlo’s style, has been very beneficial to the team,” he said.
He added that Nigeria has no excuse not to win the tournament, referencing the Super Falcons’ WAFCON triumph over Morocco.
Opara called for the introduction of goal-line technology and urged authorities to prevent injuries from disrupting the team.
A female coach, Martha Obi, commended Chelle and his assistants, saying that they have done very well with the team.
“Their tactics are superb. Leave the scoreline; this is the most interesting football Nigeria has played in a long time. Total dominance,” she said.
She called for quick payment of players outstanding allowances, during international engagements to serve as a motivation to the team.
Abdullahi Gambo, a fan, described the win as historic.
“This is a great achievement that has earned us another semi-final opportunity. We thank Allah for this victory and pray for more successes,” he said.
Festus Ojo, an Ogun-based supporter, expressed delight in local parlance, saying, “Na we get the cup.”
He praised Chelle for transforming Nigeria’s playing style, adding that the team’s transformation was exciting.
“The team is now organised, fearless and the most exciting to watch. Goal-line technology should be introduced at the tournament.”
Another football fan, Biodun Famulugbe, said the team had a mission from the beginning of the tournament.
“The trophy is coming back to Nigeria. I appreciate the Authentic Nigeria Football and Allied Sports Supporters Club (ANFASSC) for helping build the passion and collective spirit of the Super Eagles,” he said.
NAN reports that the Super Eagles will take on the Atlas Lions on Wednesday night at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat, with fans across Nigeria hopeful that Chelle’s tutored side will continue their impressive run and march towards continental glory.
Egypt will play Senegal in the other semi-final encounter at the Grand Stade de Tanger.
