Paul Osuyi, Asaba

The much anticipated international friendly match between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Cranes of Uganda ended goalless on Tuesday at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State.

Related News

The entertaining encounter was witnessed by the Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, his deputy, Kingsley Utuaro, Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Sheriff Oborevwori, President of Nigeria Football Federation, Amaju Pinnick among other dignitaries.
Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr made several changes to the team that secured qualification ticket for 2019 African Cup Nations last weekend in Johannesburg, South Africa.
Though the Eagles had larger percentage of ball possession but could not break down the defense of the Ugandans in the first half.
As a result, Coach Rohr introduced three changes on resumption of second half with Samuel Kalu, Isaac Success and Williams Troost Ekong coming in for Simon Chukwueze, Victor Osimhen and Oghenekaro Etebo respectively.
However, the defense of the visiting team remained resolute, neutralising every move by the Eagles attack led by Captain Ahmed Musa.
Musa was however substituted for Moses Simon in the 67th minute. Coach Rohr made further substitution in his desire for goal as he brought on Henry Onyekuru in place of Alex Iwobi in the 74th minute.
The coach was not done yet as he withdrew a defender, John Ogu to make way for Kelechi Iheanacho in the 87th minute, but the fresh legs in the attack could not find the back of the net.
In previous meetings, the Cranes of Uganda have a better head to head record against the Eagles. The Cranes have defeated Nigeria on four previous occasion while Nigeria has won on two occasions.
Both teams have also secured qualification tickets for next year’s African Cup of Nations holding in Cameroon.
Earlier in a novelty match, former Super Eagles defeated Delta All Stars by two goals to nil with Mutiu Adepoju netting both goals.