Chad coach happy with his team

By Jude Opara, Kaduna

THE Super Eagles yesterday began their quest to qualify for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on a bright note with a 2-0 victory over their counterparts from Chad.

Warri Wolves striker, Gbolahan Salami got the first goal in the 65th minute after a beautiful combination with Ahmed Musa.

The goal was the needed tonic for the Nigerians who looked ordinary in the first half as they continued to mount pressure on the visitors’ half.

The substitution of Babatunde Michael with Rabiu Ibrahim and Aaron Samuel with Odion Ighalo paid off almost immediately as the skilful Ighalo earned a penalty after he was pulled down in the vital area by a Chadian defender in the 65th minute. He rose to his feet and scored from the spot.

However, the talking point of the game was when the centre referee gave Super Eagles midfielder, Ogenyi Onazi the marching order, following a red card after he charged at a Chadian defender who had slapped him.

In a post match address, Chief Coach of the Super Eagles, Stephen Keshi praised his boys “for playing according to instructions”.

He also said that his team was still work in progress, hence the fielding of three new players including Ekong William, Madu Kingsley and Edison Anderson.

In his own reaction, Chief Coach of the Chadian national team, Emmanuel Tregoat admitted that the Nigerians were better hence he was not disappointed with the result.

According to him, Chad is a small team that hopes to grow one day like Nigeria.