Super Eagles at AFCON 2023: Nigeria's watertight defence key to title hopes after 3 consecutive clean sheets

Nigeria has kept three clean sheets in four matches so far at AFCON 2023. (Photo Credit: Pulse Sports collage)

Super Eagles at AFCON 2023: Nigeria's watertight defence key to title hopes after 3 consecutive clean sheets

Izuchukwu Akawor 06:22 - 29.01.2024

Nigeria's Super Eagles have conceded just once in four matches at the AFCON 2023.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria have forged a formidable path in AFCON 2023 in Cote d’Ivoire, anchored by an impenetrable defence that has conceded just once. 

Saturday night's impressive 2-0 victory over Cameroon marked the third consecutive match in which Nigeria kept a clean sheet, showcasing the brilliance of goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali and the stout defensive unit.

Nigeria at AFCON 2023

The journey to a fourth title kicked off on a shaky note for the Eagles after coming from behind to survive eventual Group A winners Equatorial Guinea following an uninspiring 1-1, with Victor Osimhen the hero.

However, things have since looked different for the Super Eagles, with the William Troost-Ekong-led defensive unit in an inspired form since that in-famous opener. 

Stanley Nwabali has been a breath of fresh air for the Super Eagles so far.
Stanley Nwabali has been a breath of fresh air for the Super Eagles so far. (Photo Credit: Nwabali/X)

This shutout against the Indomitable Lions in the round of 16 not only secured a spot for the Super Eagles in the AFCON 2023 quarterfinals but also positioned them as strong contenders for the ultimate prize. 

Manager Jose Peseiro will be banking on the team's defensive resilience to persist as they navigate through the competition in Nigeria’s bid to clinch their fourth AFCON title.

William Troost-Ekong scoring for Nigeria against Ivory Coast
William Troost-Ekong scoring for Nigeria against Ivory Coast | X/@NigeriaSSA

Having last won the title 10 years ago in South Africa, Nigeria's journey to potential glory sees Angola as the next challenge. The Black Antelopes, who showed their attacking ability in a one-sided win against neighbours Namibia, are no strangers to Nigeria. 

Peseiro and his Eagles are well aware that keeping their sheets clean again may be the key to ending the prolonged wait for a fourth AFCON title. 

Jose Peseiro asked his Super Eagles not to concede against Cameroon and they listened.
Jose Peseiro asked his Super Eagles not to concede against Cameroon and they listened. (Photo Credit: Pooja Media/X)

As they face the brilliant Angolans on Friday, the Super Eagles remain focused on maintaining their defensive solidity and progressing further in their quest for continental success.

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