AFCON 2023: Super Eagles Coach Jose Peseiro Provides Surprise Response to Nigeria’s Goalscoring Woes

• The commencement of the Africa Cup of Nations knockout phase is upon us
• Nigeria’s attack has failed to live up to expectations set for it in the lead-up to AFCON
• Super Eagles coach has provided a surprise response to his team’s attacking troubles

The knockout stage of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is on the horizon, and all 16 qualified teams are ready to leave their mark on the prestigious tournament.

However, as Nigeria gears up to face the Indomitable Lions of Cameroon, a recurring concern emerges— the team's struggle to score the numerous goals that many expected from the Super Eagles, given the high-profile attacking talents at their disposal.

Despite creating the most chances in the tournament so far, Jose Peseiro's squad has only managed to hit the back of the net three times, including an own goal and a penalty.

AFCON 2023: Nigeria coach Jose Peseiro goes spiritual ahead of Ivory Coast clash, video

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Nevertheless, as the crucial clash against Cameroon looms, Peseiro has offered a surprising response in addressing his team's goal-scoring challenges.

Peseiro on Nigeria’s scoring woes

In his final press conference before the upcoming match, the 63-year-old coach was questioned by the media regarding his team's defensive approach and the apparent lack of goals.

Referencing the 2021 AFCON and Senegal's victorious journey, as reported by Brila.net, he pointed out,

"If you remember the last AFCON, Senegal didn't score too many goals in the group stages."

The Portuguese coach continued to defend his team's strategy, emphasising,

"I have the obligation to do what is right for my team, select the best formations, and determine how we can win games."

However, the remarks from the former Sporting CP coach have not been well-received by fans of the national team, who express concern about the team's performance in the tournament.

Kenneth Omeruo reflects on Peseiro’s inspirational half-time talk during Super Eagles’ AFCON win over Ivory Coast

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Many supporters have taken to social media to criticise what they perceive as a tactical inefficiency, especially considering the abundance of attacking talent at the manager's disposal.

Nevertheless, Nigerians remain hopeful that the team can secure a victory as they face the Indomitable Lions at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny.

Cameroon coach sends message to Nigeria

In another report, Sports Brief stated that Cameroon coach Rigobert Song has conveyed a defiant message to Nigeria's Super Eagles in anticipation of their round of 16 clash.

The 47-year-old emphasised that talisman Victor Osimhen does not scare his team. The former AFCON winner also underscored that their approach would focus on executing their game plan to secure victory.