Nigeria Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro has taken responsibility for Francis Uzoho's slip-up against Saudi Arabia.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles manager Jose Peseiro reacted after the thrilling encounter between the Super Eagles and Saudi Arabia.
The match ended in a 2-2 draw but was overshadowed by a notable incident involving Nigerian goalkeeper, Francis Uzoho which drew attention and led to an honest response from the Super Eagles boss.
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Nigeria vs Saudi Arabia: What happened
The first-ever clash between the Nigerian Eagles and their Green Falcons counterparts from Saudi Arabia took place at the Estadio Municipal de Portimao in Portuga.
It was a game that showcased exciting football as both teams went head-to-head, with Nigeria dominating most of the game.
However, it was a crucial moment involving Cyprus-based goalkeeper, Uzoho, that has become the biggest focal point of discussion from the four-goal thriller.
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Nigeria vs Saudi Arabia: Uzoho disasterclass costs Super Eagles despite Iheanacho brilliance
Kelechi Iheanacho came off the bench to score a superb goal but it was not enough as the Super Eagles drew 2-2 with Saudi Arabia.
After a goalless opening 45 minutes, Uzoho, the Nigerian goalkeeper, made an uncharacteristic error that allowed Saudi Arabia to break the deadlock on the hour mark.
The 24-year-old made a mess of a free kick inside the Nigerian half from Salman Al-Faraj to give the Falcons the lead against the run of play.
Uzoho’s mistake proved to be costly in the end despite the Super Eagles fighting back to lead 2-1 thanks to two superb goals from Victor Boniface and Kelechi Iheanacho.
Saudi Arabia would deny Nigeria a win when Mohamed Kanno struck a late equaliser from another free kick to earn the Falcons a share of the spoils.
Super Eagles’ Peseiro reacts
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In his post-match press conference, Nigeria’s head coach, Peseiro, took full responsibility for the costly error and addressed the need for improvement in Uzoho’s training while also defending the goalkeeper.
The former Porto boss emphasised that he does not understand why goalkeepers are attacked all the time due to errors compared to attackers.
“I like our players, (and) when they make mistakes, it is my responsibility,” Peseiro said according to a post by Brila FM.
“The goalkeepers never play free or calm because of people. I don’t know why they attack the goalkeepers every time.
“Why don’t they attack the strikers when they lose the ball or miss a goal? Why?”
The manager hinted that the goalkeepers appeared to be under pressure and uncomfortable by the unending attacks.
“When I arrived here, I remember I was told to change the goalkeeper,” he added. “I spoke with all of them, no one feels comfortable because everybody attacked them.
“They could make mistakes, it is my responsibility. Next time, I need to train him better.”
The coach’s response demonstrated accountability and a commitment to player development.
For the Super Eagles, the 2-2 draw against Saudi Arabia provided valuable insights and lessons for the team as they prepare for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Mozambique.
The Super Eagles are eager to continue their journey and strive for excellence as Peseiro looks to win Nigeria’s fourth AFCON title next year in Cote d’Ivoire.
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