The training of the senior national team of Nigeria ahead of the start of the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations came alive yesterday with 23 players taking part.
Interim coach of the team Austine Eguavoen was on hand to supervise the session alongside his technical staff for the over two hours that the entire training lasted at the Moshood Abiola stadium.
OwnGoalNigeria.com picks five players who excelled during the course of the training yesterday.
Kelechi Iheanacho – He was very sharp all through and clinical in front of goal. Finished top during a drill on goal scoring. Scored twice during the test match and once when the pitch was halved. His well taken penalty also handed his team the win after a tie.
Sadiq Umar – Opponents of the Super Eagles will find it difficult to contain the lanky forward. He used his height and physical attributes very well against defenders. Scored a hattrick after struggling during the shooting drills. His old fashioned striker kind of play made him a handful for William Troost Ekong and Kenneth Omeruo.
Moses Simon – Looks certain to start against Egypt on the left wing on the strength of his performance yesterday. Strong, quick and very direct when on the ball. Semi Ajayi struggled to get close to him. He appears to have also struck a good combination with Zaidu Sanusi on the left.
Frank Onyeka – He didn’t stop running from the start to the end of the session. Mopped every ball available and by our count won more balls than any other player during the session. He will surely play a pivotal role for Nigeria at the tournament.
Daniel Akpeyi – For the two sessions we have seen so far. He is the best goalkepper in camp. So far he has impressed with his reflexes, ball distribution, handling and also stopping shots during shooting drills. Came battle ready to wrestle the number one spot from Maduka Okoye.
