AFCON 2023: Super Eagles Coach Frustrated at Nigeria’s Goal Scoring Efforts

• Jose Peseiro believes it is time for the Super Eagles to start scoring goals
• Nigeria scored just three times in three games in the AFCON group phase
• The Super Eagles have still qualified for the knockouts with seven points

Nigeria's struggles in front of goal at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations remain a source of worry for Super Eagles coach, Jose Peseiro, who has admitted things need to change.

The three-time African champions only managed three goals in the group phase of the competition, two from open play and one from the penalty spot against Ivory Coast.

The Super Eagles have struggled to convert chances, with Napoli forward and reigning Africa Footballer of the Year, Victor Osimhen the biggest culprit.

Peseiro says now is the time for the team to start scoring, Complete Sports reported:

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"It’s a new competition that’s starting for us. The most important part of a competition is the knockout matches. We will have to be more clinical in front of goal because the slightest mistake will be fatal for us."

The Super Eagles sealed qualification to the Round of 16 after a slim 1-0 victory against Guinea-Bissau and will now meet Cameroon in the knockouts.

Nigeria defeat Guinea-Bissau to qualify

Meanwhile, Opa Sangante’s own goal in the 36th minute was all Nigeria needed to seal a Round of 16 spot at AFCON 2023 after securing a 1-0 victory against Guinea-Bissau, All Africa reports.

It was the Super Eagles' 100th match at a Nations Cup tournament, and despite an unconvincing performance from Peseiro’s team, Nigeria has now made it through to the knockout stage.

Equatorial Guinea topped Group A ahead of Nigeria on goal difference, while host nation, Ivory Coast managed to earn their place in the Round of 16 by ending among the top third-placed teams.

Ivory Coast 2023: Victor Osimhen shines as Nigeria kicks off AFCON with a draw against Equatorial Guinea

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Nigeria's AFCON stats heading into last 16

Sports Brief has also analysed Nigeria's AFCON statistics so far, ahead of the Super Eagles' Round of 16 clash against Cameroon this weekend.

The West Africans earned a place in the next round with a second-place finish in their group, despite a less-than-impressive effort so far.