The Super Eagles under Gernot Rohr suffered their first home defeat in a long while and left Nigeria fans shocked as they lost 1-0 to underdogs, Central Africa Republic (CAR) in their third Group C match of the 2022 World Cup qualifiers. It was obviously a night to forget for the German tactitian’s team.
 Here are some of the major talking points from the game.

'Lack of Creativity In Midfield Cost Nigeria The Match'

There is no doubt that the main missing link in the Super Eagles’ 1-0 shocking loss to Central African Republic was the lack of a creative midfielder who could hold the ball and and link up the attackers to trouble the visitor’s stubborn defence.

It was obvious that CAR came with an approach to defend, however, Nigeria’s inability to find those killer passes to Victor Osimhen and Taiwo Awoniyi contributed to the team’s downfall. Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr now faces the test of discovering a natural creative midfielder in the mould of Austine JJ Okocha.

Troost-Ekong, Balogun Poor Communication

The ‘oyinbo wall’ as they are fondly called by the Nigerian fans were kept busy by CAR as they made several interceptions to deny CAR goal scoring chances. However, they failed to last the distance, and when it mattered most their poor communication allowed the visitors to dispossess of the ball and calmly slotted it past goalkeeper Francis Uzoho for a famous victory over Nigeria.

'Too Early To Condemn The Super Eagles'

Despite losing 1-0 to CAR at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, it will be too early to start casting stones on the players for the defeat. Instead, this should serve as a wakeup call for not only the players, but also the technical crew of the team – that big names don’t always matter in football.

'Poor Sportsmanship Of Super Eagles Players'

In football, you win some and you lose some. Regardless of the outcome, players express some level of love to their opponent either by way of handshakes or exchange of jerseys. The Super Eagles, failed to show spirit of sportsmanship after they lost to CAR and ignored some of the CAR players who approached them for handshakes.

'Ejuke Brilliant in Eagles’ Defeat'

Another brilliant display from Chidera Ejuke who was making his second appearance under Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr. His vision and ability to take on his opponents often kept the CAR defenders aback. His attacking threat created so much nightmare for the CAR defenders. No doubt, Ejuke has won his way into Rohr’s heart.

'Ola Aina – Holding Grip Of Right-back Role'

The Torino star has taken his game to a different level as he piloted the Super Eagles attack from the right-back with good overlapping that caused CAR some trouble.