Super Eagles Unleash Friendly Roar, Top Mozambique 3-2

Super Eagles Triumph in Thrilling 3-2 Friendly Match Against Mozambique

In a nail-biting clash held at Portimäo, Portugal, yesterday, the Super Eagles broke their five-year friendly game drought by securing a 3-2 victory against Mozambique, who played with ten men.

Mozambique set the pace with an early lead, netting a goal through Geny Catamo just seven minutes into the game, stirring concerns that Nigeria’s friendly winless streak might persist. However, Terem Moffi of OGC Nice responded swiftly, finding the back of the net from close range 13 minutes later, leveling the score for the Super Eagles at Estádio Municipal de Albufeira in Portugal.

Sustaining their momentum, Nigeria took the lead at the half-hour mark when Frank Onyeka, an outstanding player from Brentford, capitalized on a loose ball at the edge of the box, firing a shot that propelled the score to 2-1 in favor of the Eagles.

Despite Mozambique losing a player to a red card after a foul on Joe Aribo in the 37th minute, it took Nigeria some time to notch their third goal. Moses Simon showcased unwavering determination, converting from the penalty spot in the added time of the first half.

Even with a numerical disadvantage, Mozambique fought valiantly in the second half and managed to score their second goal through Bangal ten minutes into the closing half.

Later in the match, Nigeria made strategic substitutions, bringing in players like Sadiq Umar, whose immediate impact was palpable. Although Umar’s goals in the 70th and 84th minutes were disallowed due to offsides, the Super Eagles successfully held off the East Africans in the remaining minutes, securing their first victory in a friendly match since their 1-0 win over Egypt in March 2019.

This triumph marks a significant shift in mentality for the Eagles as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches starting in November, as well as the 34th Africa Cup of Nations set to take place in Cote d’Ivoire.