The Super Eagles of Nigeria suffered a humiliating 2-0 defeat to the Syli Stars of Guinea in their last friendly match before the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The Guineans scored a goal in each half to inflict a shock loss on the three-time African champions.
Nigeria, who had breezed through the AFCON qualifiers, were the overwhelming favourites to win the encounter at the Banis Yas Stadium, Abu Dhabi. However, the Super Eagles were caught off guard by a determined and disciplined Guinea side, who played with passion and pride.
The Syli Stars drew first blood in the 14th minute, when they capitalised on a defensive lapse by the Nigerians and slotted the ball past the keeper. The Super Eagles had a chance to level the score four minutes later, when Umar Sadiq was fouled inside the box and awarded a penalty.
However, Moses Simon fluffed his lines and saw his spot kick saved by the Guinean goalie, who guessed the right direction. The Nigerians continued to press for an equaliser, but they were met with a solid wall of resistance by the Guineans, who defended with tenacity and organisation.
Samuel Chukwueze wasted a golden opportunity three minutes before the break, when he blasted his shot over the bar from close range. The Super Eagles went into the half-time trailing by a goal and looking frustrated and dejected.
The second half was more of the same, as the Nigerians failed to find their rhythm and spark. The Guineans, on the other hand, grew in confidence and looked dangerous on the counter-attack. They sealed their victory in the 64th minute, when they pounced on another defensive error by the Super Eagles and doubled their lead.
The final whistle was greeted with jubilation by the Guineans, who had pulled off one of the biggest upsets in recent history. The Super Eagles, meanwhile, were left to rue their missed chances and poor performance, as they faced the wrath of their fans and critics.
The friendly match was supposed to be a confidence booster for the Super Eagles, who will face Egypt, Sudan and Guinea-Bissau in Group B of the AFCON. However, it turned out to be a nightmare for Jose Peseiro’s side, who will have to regroup and recover quickly before the tournament kicks off in June.
The Super Eagles will return to Lagos on Tuesday night, where they will be hosted to a sendforth dinner by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. They will depart for Abidjan on Wednesday, hoping to redeem themselves and restore their pride at the AFCON.