The
god of soccer is a Nigerian. This was evident here at Cape Town stadium where
the Super Eagles of Nigeria staged the biggest come back from three goals down
to defeat the Atlas Lions of Morocco 4-3 in the first quarterfinal match of the
2014 Orange African Nations Championship Saturday.
Three
first half goals by the Atlas Lions of Morocco set the tone for an emphatic 3-0
first half humiliation of the Super Eagles.
The
coach Stephen Keshi tutored team were a sorry sight as they ran from pillar to
post chasing the sleek Moroccans in their stride. From the start, it was
evident that the Moroccans meant serious business as they orchestrated several
attacks in the Nigerian half. But for the heroics of defence stalwart Azubuike
Egwuekwe, the Atlas Lions would have taken the lead earlier than it came.
After
a cagy start, the Moroccans stamped their authority in the 27th minute when
goalkeeper and captain, Chigozie Agbim stretched to parry a goal bound shot
near the post. But it was not for long when Mohsine Moutaoali spotting jersey
number 10 struck with a curling volley that beat flat footed Agbim in the 32nd
minute.
Gbolahan
Salami lost a golden chance to have put Nigeria at par but his effort went off
mark. At the Nigerian end, the Moroccans struck again in the 36th minute
through Iajour Mouhssine who converted a wonderful free kick from just outside
the 18 yard box. The Atlas Lions roared again in the 39th minute with a
clinical finish from their number 10 man.
The
Eagles were more businesslike in the second half as two quick goals from Ogonna
Uzochukwu and Rabiu Ali in the 49th and 55th minutes restored Nigeria’s hope in
this encounter.
The
Eagles proved that football is played in two halves. Just as the clock was
winding down, a stoppage time harmless volley by Uzoenyi Ejike drew level for
the Nigerians who had fought all through the second half to restore their
pride.
HOW
FAR DO YOU THINK THE TEAM CAN GO IN THE TOURNAMENT?
WHAT
ARE THE THINGS THAT KESHI AND HIS TEAM NEED TO DO TO WIN THE TROPHY?
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