Francis Uzoho proved to be a key figure in Nigeria’s thrilling 2-2 draw with Saudi Arabia on Friday, leaving the Estadio Municipal de Portimao pitch as the game’s biggest villain.
While the Super Eagles were bookmakers’ favorites, the match-up created excitement for fans as both teams met in a friendly for only the second time in their history.
Nigeria, buoyed by Saudi Arabia’s own goal and Kelechi Iheanacho’s superb strike, energetically staged a comeback as the three-time Asian Cup champions capitalized on the inevitable mistakes of the Super Eagles’ defense. However, he remained frustrated.
The mistakes that led to both goals were worryingly small and reminded us of Ghana’s heartbreaking goal in March 2022 that ended Nigeria’s World Cup dreams.
The first goal is credited to Salman Al Faraj, but it should have gone down in the record books as an own goal by Francis Uzoho.
Uzoho missed Al Faraj’s free-kick with an hour left and put the shot into the goal when it would have been easier to go over the bar.
Head coach Jose Peceiro was quick to defend Uzoho’s performance and bravely took responsibility for the goalkeeper’s mistakes. He urged critics to focus on the performance of the entire team, not just the goalkeeper.
Peseiro, in his statement, said of Uzoho:
“I like the players. If they make a mistake, it’s my responsibility. Goalkeepers never play free and calm because of people. Why do they attack the goalkeeper every time? I don’t know why they don’t attack when the striker loses the ball or misses the goal?
“I remember when I came here they told me to change the goalkeeper. I talked to everyone and no one felt comfortable because everyone was attacking us. We might make mistakes. I can’t. It’s my responsibility. I have to train him (Uzoho) better next time.”
However, Peseiro faces a critical juncture in his quest to lead the Super Eagles to victory in the upcoming African Cup of Nations.
No doubt, Peseiro’s unwavering support for Uzoho seemed commendable, but ahead of the upcoming AFCON, the veteran coach has to face a harsh reality. That said, Uzoho’s current ability may not be enough to ensure a super win for his Eagles.
At just 24 years old, Uzoho is still developing and has time to mature and realize his potential, but he currently lags far behind his predecessors such as Vincent Enyeama and Ike Sholam.
Uzoho’s potential remains undeniable, but Peceiro needs a more reliable steward if he is to have any immediate success.
Alternatives like Maduka Okoye and Adebayo Adeleye are promising, but have not been tested in such high-stakes events due to their limited experience.
However, Adeleye has a chance to claim the Nigeria national team post in the next few games and if he performs well, the 23-year-old could be considered a first choice for AFCON. .
Meanwhile, impressive performances from South Africa-based Stanley Nwabili and Arsenal player Arthur Okoronkwo, as well as promising local talent Ojo Olorunleke, Bankole Kayode and Amasu Obasogie, have provided Peseiro with a diverse range of giving you options.
Peseiro will have to tread carefully given the unfortunate consequences of the Super Eagles’ recent goalkeeping mistakes, as evidenced by the disappointment in the 2021 AFCON game against Tunisia.
Whether he stays loyal to Uzoho or steps into uncharted territory, the weight of the decision rests heavily on his shoulders, poised to determine the fate of the Super Eagles in the next championship is in place.
