•Says team must improve

Former Super Eagles assistant coach Joe Erico has allayed fears that the senior national team would have lost momentum when the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers resume in August 2017.

The Eagles, who top Group B on six points, will have to wait nine months before facing Cameroon on matchday 3 of the qualifiers.

But the former Nigeria international posited that provided the Eagles stay busy, then there would be no cause for worry. “I don’t think momentum would have been lost because within that period there will be international windows which I expect them to capitalise on,” Erico said.

Joe Erico

“I understand they are going to play a friendly match very soon against Egypt. I believe if they do this, the momentum will still be there and it will keep the boys in good shape.

“Also we should note that it’s not only Nigeria the long break will affect, it will also affect other countries. So like I said, let’s capitalise on the free windows and play as many friendlies as possible.”

Reflecting on the performance of the Eagles against Algeria, Erico stated that a lot of work still needs to be done by the coaching crew.

“When handling a team like the current Super Eagles squad, every department must be worked on. Because if we want to break the game down, from our defence, midfield and even down to the attack, was porous, let’s forget about the goals that was scored.

“The Eagles collapsed towards the end, they lost steam and were lucky because the Algerians couldn’t convert some of their chances.”