Former Nigeria U-23 forward Emmanuel Okoduwa in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa has urged the Super Eagles to maintain the same intensity and hunger they displayed against Algeria as they prepare for their Africa Cup of Nations semi-final clash with Morocco.
As Nigeria get set to face the Atlas Lions on their home turf, Okoduwa, who has closely followed the team throughout the tournament, believes the Super Eagles can overcome the hosts if they sustain their momentum and remain unfazed by the expected partisan support in the stadium.
“The team has done really well in the tournament so far and I have enjoyed a lot of the football I have seen from them. I must give them credit for that,” the former Dynamo Kyiv forward exclusively told Footy-Africa.
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“The game against Algeria was a joy to watch because we dominated them from start to finish. I felt we could have scored more goals, but a win is a win at this stage of the competition.”
Okoduwa praised Nigeria’s fluid attacking play but stressed the need for greater efficiency in front of goal.
“They moved the ball very well and created a lot of chances, which is encouraging. I hope they can improve on converting those chances when they create them,” he added.
Looking ahead to the semi-final, Okoduwa acknowledged the challenge Morocco will pose but backed Nigeria to rise to the occasion.
“It will be very tough against Morocco because they are the hosts and have also played well in this competition. Facing them in front of their fans will not be easy. But I believe our boys can do it because they have been improving with every game. If they maintain the same intensity they showed against Algeria, they will be fine. In fact, if they can perform even better than the last game, it will be a very interesting watch. I am rooting for them and I hope they make us proud,” he concluded.
Nigeria booked their place in the last four of the tournament after a commanding 2–0 victory over Algeria in Thursday’s quarter-final encounter. The Super Eagles dominated proceedings from start to finish, with second-half goals from Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams sealing a memorable win.
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That result set up a mouth-watering semi-final showdown against tournament hosts Morocco, scheduled to take place in Rabat on Wednesday.
