AFCON 2023: We now have a team, Izilein says

A former coach of Nigeria`s female national team, the Super Falcons, Godwin Izilein has described the present Super Eagles squad as the best in recent times.

Izilein who spoke in an interview with the newsmen on Thursday in Calabar, said the strength of the squad lies in playing for each other and better understanding.

According to him, “They understand themselves and play normal game. They attack and defend for themselves.

“This wasn’t the case before; they cover for themselves. The players have come to realise that your mistake is mine and mine is yours.

“There is now element of maturity in their game and they now also play with flexibility.

“The only snag is that, Alex Iwobi has really not been fully into this tournament. He loses possession easily and does not defend and cover up for his colleagues.

“Iwobi only plays when he has the ball and go to sleep when he is not.”

Izilein, however, said he remained confident that the Super Eagles will triumph over Angola in the quarter final match on Friday.

“I am convinced and confident that Nigeria will deal with Angola on Friday,” he stated.

NAN reports that the Super Eagles who emerged the runner up in group A that comprised Cote d`Ivoire, won their round of 16 duel against Cameroon to qualify for the quarter final.

The Super Eagles have so far played four matches, won three and drew one in the ongoing AFCON.

The team have also scored a total of five goals and conceded one in the five matches.