Nigerians resident in South Africa have praised the Super Eagles for a good outing in spite of their playing a goalless draw with host, South Africa in a Nations Cup qualifier.

Mr Azu Okparaugo, former President, Nigerian Union, Western Cape Province of South Africa, said on telephone from Cape Town on Thursday that Nigerians in South Afriuca were happy with the team.

“Information gathered before the match showed that South Africans believed that they will win Nigeria in the match.

“They believed that it was their day. They also believed that the administrative problems in the Nigeria Football Association (NFA) will affect the Eagles, so that they will capitalise on it to win us.

“But, the Eagles stood their ground and almost sealed the game, if not for the South African defender who cleared the ball,” he said.

According to Okparaugo, Nigerians in South Africa are not disappointed and are impressed with the Eagles.

“We knew it will not be an easy game. We have played South Africa 13 times and they have only won once.

“Our players are having difficult time, we are aware, but we trust our players, they will always get better,’’ he said.

He added that at the end of the match, Nigerians in Cape Town met the Eagles and they assured them that they would improve.

Mr Vincent Nzekwe, President of Abia State Union in South Africa, said that the Eagles did their best in the match.

“It was not an easy game for Nigeria. We supported the Eagles all the way and we are happy they picked a draw.

“The players did their best in spite of the intimidating home support. I believe the team will get better,’’ Nzekwe said. (NAN)