Nigeria vs Cameroon: Omeruo explains why he was brought in immediately Aboubakar was introduced

• Kenneth Omeruo has lauded Jose Peseiro’s tactics in Nigeia’s win over Cameroon
• The Super Eagles beat arch-rivals the Indomitable Lions 2-0 in the AFCON 2023 last 16
• Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman inspired an impressive performance in Abidjan

Nigeria defender Kenneth Omeruo has praised the Super Eagles' performance as they secured a 2-0 victory against arch-rivals Cameroon in the AFCON 2023 last 16 on Saturday, January 27.

Two minutes after dangerman Vincent Aboubakar was introduced, Omeruo was brought on by head coach Jose Peseiro in the 80th minute to replace Zaidu Sanusi, to contain the pressure from the opposition.

Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman emerged as the hero with a brace, showcasing a match marked by early drama and relentless pressure from the Super Eagles.

In the build-up to the game, the lethal striker Aboubakar had been tipped to lead his side to glory against the Nigerians.

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The Besiktas of Turkey forward was introduced in the 78th minute, but two minutes later, Jose Peseiro made a tactical change, withdrawing Zaidu Sanusi and introducing Kenneth Omeruo.

Speaking exclusively to Sports Brief after the game played at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium in Abidjan, Omeruo reacted after he was asked if he was brought in to stop the former Al Nassr of Saudi striker. He said:

"Yes, I was brought in to maintain the great job that the team was already doing. I'm happy we could keep a clean sheet; it was important for us."

When asked about the changes under the management of the Portuguese, Omeruo praised the tactics, noting the perfect execution by the players while highlighting the coach's emphasis on not conceding goals. Omeruo added:

"Kudos to him. He has worked hard to make us understand the tactics he brought into the team, and we are doing it perfectly."

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The match initially saw an early goal by Semi Ajayi disallowed after a VAR review. Still, Nigeria continued their aggressive play, with Lookman capitalizing on Victor Osimhen's efforts to break the deadlock in the 36th minute, as reported by France24.

Calvin Bassey's assist led to Lookman's second goal, sealing the game beyond reach for Cameroon and securing Nigeria's place in the quarter-finals.

Peseiro gives update on Stanley Nwabili’s injury

Sports Brief reported that Super Eagles manager Jose Peseiro gave an update about Stanley Nwabili's injury ahead of Nigeria's quarter-final tie against Angola at the 2023 AFCON.

The Chippa United goalkeeper collided with Cameroon forward Georges-Kevin N'KoudouN'Koudou.

Francis Uzoho replaced him after being unable to continue after treatment.