Nigeria vs Cameroon: Unveiling the Super Eagles' Potential - A Nostalgic Blast from the Past

Nigeria and Cameroon are set to open another chapter in their impressive and interesting rivalry in African football when they take to the pitch in a decisive AFCON 2023 round of 16 encounter.

Ahead of that encounter, this writer takes you through the emotions that followed one of Nigeria’s memorable moments against the Indomitable Lions.

The resounding 4-0 triumph against Cameroon in the 2018 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers left many asking, "Can the Super Eagles play this well?" For those who have closely followed the team with genuine passion, yesterday's performance was no surprise, but rather a testament to the team's evolving strength.

In the absence of key players like John Mikel Obi, Victor Moses, Leon Balogun, and Carl Ikeme during the match against South Africa, the impact was palpable. It marked the first time we faced an opponent without four important players, and the void was evident. With the return of three out of the four players and considering our historical record against Cameroon, confidence in a victory was unwavering, although a convincing 4-0 margin exceeded expectations.

While the scoreline may seem flattering to Cameroon, the Super Eagles displayed a level of dominance that could have easily resulted in an even higher tally. The challenge now facing our Franco-German coach, Gernot Rohr, lies in finding suitable deputies for the likes of Mikel, Moses, and Balogun. 

The brilliance of Ekene Ezenwa in goal emphasised the Super Eagles' need for dependable substitutes, evident in the inadequate performance of Daniel Akpeyi.

Rohr's commitment to implementing the German style (focus on youths) is evident in the inclusion of young talents like Mikel Agu, Wilfred Ndidi, Oghenekaro Etebo, Kelechi Iheanacho, Dele Alampasu, Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon, Tyronne Ebuehi, and Ola Aina, among others — players aged between 19-21. It reflects the coach's forward-thinking approach and his vision for the team's future.

While the focus is on qualifying for the upcoming World Cup, the real anticipation lies in the 2022 event. The prospect of a young, experienced, and exciting side, given the importance of continuity, is something to look forward to. 

As Super Eagles fans, we share Rohr's vision, endorsing his efforts to steer the team towards success. Keep Soaring, My Super Eagles.

This piece was first written on September 2, 2017, 24 hours after Nigeria’s Super Eagles dismantled the Indomitable Lions 4-0 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Nigeria’s scorers on that brilliant and fateful day were 2019 AFCON top scorer, Odion Ighalo, skipper, Mikel, (Victor) Moses, and Iheanacho.

A repeat of that result at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan later on Saturday would be welcome.