Ilenikhena, Usor Should Have Started Against Guinea-Bissau — Ikpeba

Former Nigeria international Victor Ikpeba has said the Super Eagles could have produced a much better result against Guinea-Bissau if head coach Eric Chelle had started George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor.

Nigeria were beaten 3-0 by the Djurtus in Tuesday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, a match in which Chelle’s side struggled to impose themselves. Guinea-Bissau took the lead in the first half through Franculino Djú. After the break, Mama Baldé doubled the advantage, and Álvaro Djaló completed the scoring with a third goal deep into stoppage time.

Speaking on SuperSport Ikpeba criticised Nigeria’s approach and tactical decisions against a physical opponent.

“The likes of Akor, Ademola, [and] Awoniyi cannot step up. The young George didn’t start the game. I thought he could have started,” Ikpeba said.

“I thought Moses Usor should have started the game. That fighting spirit that we are wearing the green and whites should be there in their minds.”

The former forward also spoke about the weight of expectation on the team after the heavy loss.

“With a population of 250 million, the expectations are exceptionally elevated. The manner in which we surrendered pained me deeply,” he added.

The result reshapes the Group L standings, lifting Guinea-Bissau to six points from two matches after their opening 2-0 victory over Tanzania.

Nigeria remain on three points following their earlier 2-1 comeback win against Madagascar, leaving the Super Eagles with significant work to do as the qualification campaign continues.