Ahead of Monday’s Round of 16 encounter with Mozambique, Super Eagles left-back Bruno Onyemaechi has assured that the team’s defensive concerns have been addressed.
The Super Eagles impressed in the group stage with their attacking prowess, scoring eight goals in three matches.
However, the team’s backline has raised eyebrows after conceding four goals across the same period.
At various press briefings, both head coach Eric Chelle and the players, particularly the defenders, have faced persistent questions about their struggles to keep clean sheets.
Onyemaechi, who featured in all three group matches, revealed that steps are being taken to rectify the issue.
“The coach talked to us about this. We are looking forward to improving the situation,” Onyemaechi told journalists ahead of Sunday’s training.
“Like I said, whenever we are three goals up with 75 minutes gone, we concede goals. This time around, it’s the knockout stage. Even if we concede one, you can lose the game, so we are looking forward to improving this aspect and trying to get the clean sheet that is going to win us the game.”
Addressing suggestions that Mozambique might be an easy opponent, Onyemaechi said, “No, every team here is ready to win also. Mozambique is ready to win. So we’re not talking about like Nigeria already won the game. Mozambique players also playing high level. So they are ready and we are also ready to fight against them.”
