Eagles Pip Ranchers Bees 1-0

Home-based Super Eagles got its first real test on Wednesday at the National Stadium in Abuja , with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Pro-league division One side Ranchers Bees of Kaduna.

As expected goalkeeper and captain of the side Chigozie Agbim, started the game along side Azubuike Egwueke, Papa Idris in the central defence, while Gabriel Reuben and Godfrey Obenabo complete the back line. The midfield was expectedly anchored by Bathlomew Ibenegbu and Izu Azuka, while Kalu Uche, Sunday Mba, Ibrahim Ajani and Uzoenyi Ejike, were the attackers.

As always, the national team started the brighter of the two sides, but were shy in front of goal. But in the 16th minute, Ajani’s dangerous incursion deep into Ranchers danger zone was abbreviated with a malicious challenge from Bees Usman Mohammed., for a free kick from about 22 yards.

Ibenegbu’s free kick was easily converted by Kalu Uche, who was playing with a blistered toe and as replaced midway into the half. It was to be the only goal of the entertaining encounter, the third by the Eagles since camp opened a little over a week ago.

Ranchers managed by ex-international, Ishaya Jatau, caused quite some troubles for the national team but they were easily curtailed by the defence line.

The second half was no better, with the introduction of Godwin Paul in goal, Rabiu Ibrahim, Kabir Musa, Kola Anubi, while Papa Idris was retained.

Chance after chance that fell to the Eagles were missed with Ejike, who returned later and youth corp member, Stephen Morah, showing relentless energy throughout the encounter. But Ranchers keeper Badnmus Kassim, was impressive in goal, while skipper of his side Onyebuchi James, stood commanding in his defensive midfield role throughout.

The national team almost paid direly for their wastefulness in front of goal, when a last minute onslaught by Ranchers Nasiru Shehu, missed target by the whiskers after goalkeeper Paul, was well beaten.

Head Coach, Stephen Keshi, said it was a confidence building encounter and he hopes to have many more of such games as he tries to raise a formidable home-based squad.

He praised the high standard of the game and promised that a more formidable side will be the next team that the Eagles will play.