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Jose Peseiro has hailed Super Eagles squad members for their character and reaction despite losing 2-1 to Mexico in his first official game of the three-time African champions.
Mexico defeated Nigeria 2-1 in a friendly at the AT&T Stadium, in Arlington, Texas, on Sunday morning with 56,872 fans in attendance.
Santiago Tomas Gimenez of Mexico scored in the 12th minute after the ball came off him from goalkeeper Francis Uzoho save to give his side a 1-0 lead.
Feyenoord hitman Cyril Dessers then equalised for the Eagles with a header in the 54th minute off Calvin Bassey’s inviting cross.
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However, stand-in captain Williams Troost-Ekong restored Mexico lead with an own-goal.
The Eagles started rather slowly, but they grew in confidence as the game progressed.
Peseiro praises Super Eagles despite losing start vs Mexico
Peseiro said though he was not happy the team lost, he was satisfied that the players came back stronger.
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“I am not happy that we lost, but I am delighted and happy with my players’ performances and character,” he remarked.
“I am happy the way they reacted on the pitch in the second half by giving their best.
“We have quality players, we tried to compete with Mexico in the first half, but we couldn’t, we came out better in the second half.”
He also commends the home-based players who featured in the game.
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“The home-based players did well no doubt. I am happy with them,” he submitted.
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