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Nigeria’s 2–1 loss to Egypt in Cairo may have ended a nine-year unbeaten run against the Pharaohs, yet it offered head coach Eric Chelle valuable clarity.
With the Africa Cup of Nations just days away, the match served as a final stress test; exposing strengths to lean on, weaknesses to fix, and selection calls that now feel far less debatable.
From encouraging individual displays to clear warnings in certain positions, here are Footynaija’s five major lessons Nigeria can take from the encounter.
1. Paul Onuachu gives Nigeria a different attacking dimension
Paul Onuachu was Nigeria’s standout performer in attack on the night. Leading the line with authority, the towering striker brought structure to Nigeria’s attack; holding up play, winning aerial duels, and allowing midfield runners to join in.
Even without a goal, his influence was obvious. Nigeria looked more settled when playing into him, especially against Egypt’s physical centre-backs. With Victor Osimhen expected to return, Onuachu has shown he is not just a Plan B, but a tactical weapon; particularly against deep, compact defences at AFCON.
2. Bright Osayi-Samuel looks the natural stand-in for Ola Aina
Coach Chelle has invited Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Alebiosu to compete for the rightback role, but Bright Osayi-Samuel may have blown the newcomer out of the waters before he even kicks a ball.
In the absence of Ola Aina, Osayi-Samuel quietly delivered one of his most convincing performances in a Nigeria shirt. His pace, recovery speed and willingness to carry the ball out of defence helped Nigeria escape pressure repeatedly in the first half.
More importantly, he looked comfortable in the role, disciplined defensively and brave in possession. Chelle now has a reliable solution in rightback and a competent backup ahead of crucial games in Morocco.
3. Igoh Ogbu shows signs of becoming a defensive pillar
Igoh Ogbu’s display was calm, assertive and mature. He read danger well, won key duels, and showed composure in possession, attributes Nigeria will need in a tournament setting.
While he is still growing into international football, Ogbu looked like a defender who belongs at this level. With the right partner, he could yet emerge as a defensive mainstay for the Super Eagles.
4. Awaziem’s goal does not change the centre-back hierarchy
Chidozie Awaziem deserves credit for reacting sharply to score Nigeria’s equaliser. However, the overall performance reinforced a key reality: he is not yet ready to start ahead of Calvin Bassey.
Positioning lapses and moments of uncertainty remain part of his game. At AFCON, where margins are thin, Nigeria need their most complete defenders. Bassey’s absence was felt and his return will almost certainly restore order at the back.
5. Midfield promise shines, but some roles are now clearer
Fisayo Dele-Bashiru once again hinted at his growing importance. His energy, ball-carrying and shooting threat suggest he could be a major asset at AFCON. Meanwhile, the debuts of Ebenezer Akinsanmiro, Tochukwu Nnadi and Salim Fago Lawal were tidy and encouraging, even if unspectacular.
At the other end, Zaidu Sanusi endured a difficult night and looked short of confidence, while Amas Obasogie’s outing confirmed his current status: a capable but clear third-choice goalkeeper behind Nwabali and the returning Francis Uzoho.
Final takeaway
Nigeria did not win but they learned. And on the eve of a major tournament, that may prove far more important.
