Nigeria Exit AFCON Due to Inexperience and Slow Start

Algeria defeated Nigeria in a phenomenal 1-2 matchup during the semi-finals of the African Cup of Nations. Let’s take a closer look at the outcome of the game and what happened.

Nigeria’s Slot Start

Gernot Rohr, the Nigeria manager, opted-in for an unchanged line-up against Algeria which was the very first time in this competition, naming the same 11 players that conquered South Africa during the quarterfinals. Although the names might have been the same, the performances from these players were not.

There was no energy left after the match against South Africa, and the team looked short of pace when it came to reaction times and high press on the ball. It also didn’t help that most of the players looked like they had an off day. Kenneth Omeruo made several critical errors in defence, the first touch by Odion Ighalo was far below par, and Wilfred Ndidi gave the ball away, which never happens. Then there was the own goal from William Troost-Ekong during the 40th minute that set back Nigeria even more.

Inexperience from Nigeria

There’s no denying that Algeria deserved the win, even though the reaction on the penalty that was awarded to Nigeria left something to be desired. The decisive moment in the game managed to highlight Algeria’s quality and Nigeria’s inexperience. Goalkeeping is the weakest link when it comes to Nigeria, and the manager needs to find a solution to this before the next big tournament. The manager also needs to ensure that the team learn from this disappointing experience.

The lungs and legs of Etebo and Ndidi have been critical factors in the success of Nigeria. However, due to all the running, it took its toll on Sunday evening as both players seemed weary against quick-moving opponents. The split-second reactions were the primary difference between losing second balls and winning tackles, and both players were always behind on both counts.

Nigeria was in desperate need of a third defensive midfielder to take care of the back four. However, reinforcements never arrived as a fresh pair of legs might have prevented the free-kick. This is certainly something that will be questioned by supporters going forward.

Although Nigeria was having a difficult time against Algeria, Ighalo proved once again that he has what it takes. After Aissa Mandi used his hand to stop the ball during the 71st minute, the referee needed the VAR technology to confirm a penalty. Nigeria needed someone with nerves of steel to step up and take the vital penalty kick. Although it seemed rather dull, never forget Victor Ikpeba’s failed penalty kick during the Nations Cup final in 2000.

Ighalo managed to perform exceptionally well under pressure even though he received mixed reviews over his performance in Egypt over the past few weeks. However, although he scored brilliantly, it was never going to be enough, sending Algeria to the finals.