AFCON win can compensate for Super Eagles World Cup absence — Philips

by · The Eagle Online

The President of the Nigeria Pitch Awards, Shina Philips, has said that a win for the Super Eagles in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) would compensate Nigerians for the country’s failure to qualify for the FIFA World Cup.

Philips, who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria, therefore urged the Super Eagles to win the 35th AFCON in Morocco.

He spoke when he assessed Nigeria’s chances after the opening AFCON victory over Tanzania.

Nigeria began the campaign with a 2-1 win over Tanzania’s Taifa Stars in Fès on Tuesday.

Semi Ajayi opened the scoring in the 35th minute, heading in Alex Iwobi’s cross to give the Super Eagles the lead.

Tanzania equalised six minutes later through Tarryn Allarakhia, whose powerful strike beat goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.

Nigeria quickly regained the lead as Ademola Lookman fired home from the edge of the box after another incisive pass from Iwobi.

Reacting, Philips said Nigerians had high hopes of qualifying for the World Cup but were left disappointed.

He said: “It is true that Nigerians had expectations with the World Cup qualification, hoping that Nigeria would make it.

“That didn’t happen. 

“In consolation, we have AFCON, and every Nigerian football lover now has high hopes.”

Philips said winning the AFCON would be the best way to make amends.

He said: “We believe the Super Eagles should deliver. 

“That is enough to compensate Nigerians for missing the World Cup.”

Philips expressed confidence in the team’s quality and spirit.

“Assessing the team, I can conclude that we have a highly spirited side with huge hope to win the Nations Cup,” he said.

He praised the influence of new coach Eric Chelle and the growing cohesion within the squad.

He said: “We have seen the attempt of the new coach. 

“He wants to bring out the best in the team.

“The players are getting used to themselves technically, and that blend is what we need.”

However, Philips identified defensive lapses that require urgent attention. 

He said: “We saw one or two miscalculations due to lack of non-verbal communication.

“The defence is a bit wobbly, and we have to be realistic.”

He advised the players to raise their performance level against stronger opponents.

He added: “That is not enough as a take-off. 

“We must be dominant and show our global pedigree.”

Philips said missing the World Cup hurts Nigeria’s football image.

He said: “Nigeria not going to the World Cup is damaging to the brand. 

“Nigeria is a huge, sellable football name.”

He urged the team to channel the frustration into AFCON success, adding: “The vengeance of missing the World Cup should be transferred to AFCON.

“The best compensation is for the Super Eagles to return with the trophy.”

Philips called for hunger and determination from the players.

He said: “There must be that burning desire to bring the Cup to Nigeria. 

“Reaching the final last time is not enough.”

He described the previous AFCON final as disappointing. 

“It will be a resounding resurgence if the Super Eagles come home with the trophy,” he said.

Philips urged the attackers to be more ruthless in front of goal. 

“Those up front should be hungry to score, taking shots from inside and outside the 18-yard box,” he said.

He warned against underestimating host nation Morocco. 

He said: “The Morocco team are world class. 

“You cannot underestimate a host nation.”

Philips, however, expressed optimism about Nigeria’s prospects.

He said: “This AFCON is a decider for the coach. 

“We cannot aim for anything less than the final. 

“Optimistically, I believe we have what it takes to win.”

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