Terem Moffi and Paul Onuachu scored either side of half time to help the Super Eagles secure a share of the spoils following a thrilling four goal encounter against Poland at the National Stadium in Warsaw, Footynaija.com reports.
Eric Chelle’s men were twice in the lead but two stoppage-time goals in both halves from Kacper Potulski and Przemyslaw Wisniewski ensured the home side brought an end to their losing streak in front of home support.
After a thrilling game under the lights in Warsaw, let’s take a look at some key takeaways.
Impressive debut for Banik Ostrava full-back Abdullahi Bewene
Bewene seemed to be struggling on his first senior appearance for the Nigeria national team after getting caught out of position on multiple occasions in the first half. However, the 21-year-old right-back bounced back in outstanding fashion in the second half, justifying Chelle’s decision to hand him a first outing in Super Eagles colours.
Late defensive lapses prove costly for Super Eagles
The Super Eagles were good value for their two goals in Warsaw thanks to an enterprising attacking style of play that has become synonymous with the team since Eric Chelle’s arrival. However, their performance was riddled with several lapses in defense that could’ve been easily punished but for the brilliance of Maduka Okoye in goal.
Despite Okoye’s heroics, Potulski managed to pull one back for Poland after poor marking from the Nigerian defense left the 18-year-old center-back free inside the six-yard box to tap home from close range in first half stoppage time. Wisniewski would also go on to strike in second half stoppage time as Nigeria dropped off and left him with enough time to hit a belter from range.
Maduka Okoye stakes claim for Super Eagles No. 1 jersey
Okoye reclaimed the starting spot in-between the sticks for this game despite Arthur Okonkwo’s impressive display during Nigeria’s Unity Cup success in May and the Udinese shot-stopper justified Chelle’s faith.
He proved decisive after the break, turning in a string of impressive saves to frustrate Robert Lewandowski and preserve Nigeria’s advantage.
The Udinese goalkeeper first came to the Super Eagles’ rescue when Zaidu Sanusi’s misplaced back pass sent the Polish captain through on goal. Okoye reacted sharply, spreading himself well to keep out the Barcelona forward’s effort.
He was tested again moments later and rose to the occasion, producing another superb save from close range after Lewandowski latched onto a dangerous ball into the area.
Eric Chelle’s score card after first European test
This game against Poland was Chelle’s first opportunity to test his methods against European opposition, having previously been limited to most African and Caribbean teams in the World Cup qualifiers, AFCON and Unity Cup.
Overall, it was an impressive outing on the touchline for the Franco-Malian as his side produced a commanding display for large parts of the contest, especially during the first half of the encounter.
The Super Eagles took charge of proceedings, controlled possession of the ball for longer periods and created more clear cut opportunities. Despite conceding a late equalizer, it was a performance to be proud of from the three-time African champions.
