AFCON 2023: Dosu Joseph Sends Message to Francis Uzoho Amid Recent Super Eagles Relegation

• Francis Uzoho has been under the spotlight for a flurry of reasons
• The shot-stopper has been relegated to second choice with the Super Eagles
• A former Nigerian goalkeeper has sent a message to Uzoho amid the unfolding events

Conversations regarding the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast continue to herald the continent's footballing scenes.

However, in the lead-up to the AFCON, Coach Jose Peseiro's decision to include goalkeeper Francis Uzoho in the final 25-man squad faced substantial criticism and scepticism from fans and supporters of the Super Eagles.

The criticism is not unfounded, given that the 25-year-old goalkeeper has frequently struggled and made a series of mistakes, with the most notable being the costly blunder against Ghana at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, which ultimately led to Nigeria missing out on a spot in the FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

AFCON 2023: Super Eagles’ defeat to Guinea sparks discussions amongst fans

Football

However, as the AFCON events unfolded, Uzoho found himself on the bench, with Stanley Nwabali being the preferred choice in goal.

In response to these developments, former Super Eagles goalkeeper Dosu Joseph has sent a clear message to the Omonia Nicosia star.

Dosu Joseph sends message to Uzoho

In an exclusive chat with Sports Brief, the Atlanta 96 Olympic Gold-winning shot-stopper aired his thoughts on the Super Eagles goalkeeper.

When asked about his perspective on the goalkeeping department, the retired goalkeeper expressed:

"At this point, we should have sorted out the goalkeeping situation in the Super Eagles.

Regarding Uzoho's current status, I believe it's time for him to seek a new club and face a fresh challenge. If you're not getting playing time in a team, it indicates the need for a special move to boost your game."

Dosu emphasised the importance of consistent game time, stating,

AFCON 2023: Super Eagles legend advocates for backing for underfire goalkeeper Francis Uzoho

Football

"You need to be in goal for a series of games to be in your top shape."

The sentiments of the 50-year-old resonate with the widespread opinions of many Nigerians. Uzoho has often played second fiddle at the club level to Brazilian goalkeeper Fabiano Freitas.

Despite high expectations for Uzoho to take the goalkeeping role for the Super Eagles when he burst onto the scene in 2017, the shot-stopper has largely appeared underwhelming.

The emergence of the new goalkeeper could potentially mark the end of Uzoho's time with the Super Eagles unless he secures regular playing time at the club level.

Dosu Joseph makes AFCON prediction

In a separate report, Sports Brief stated that former Super Eagles goalkeeper Dosu Joseph offered his predictions for the AFCON in Ivory Coast.

The 50-year-old emphasised his belief that Nigeria would secure the Cup of Nations title. Additionally, Dosu made a bold assertion, predicting that Victor Osimhen would be crowned as the tournament's Most Valuable Player (MVP).