Former Super Eagles defender Sam Sodje has praised Nigeria’s performance in the 2-1 defeat to Portugal, insisting the team showed enough quality to compete with one of Europe’s strongest sides.
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Reacting to the friendly encounter in Leiria, Sodje commended the players for their discipline, work rate and determination throughout the game.
“The Super Eagles held their own against a top team,” Sodje said.
According to the former Reading defender, Nigeria’s display demonstrated the progress being made under coach Eric Chelle.
“The coach has found a way to make the team work hard collectively,” he implied.
Sodje noted that the Super Eagles remained compact defensively while looking to exploit opportunities on the counter-attack against the Portuguese side.
“The tactical approach was very effective for long periods,” he noted.
Nigeria recovered from Pedro Neto’s opening goal through an excellent finish from Akor Adams before eventually conceding a late winner to Francisco Conceição.
Despite the defeat, Sodje believes the performance should encourage both players and supporters.
“There were plenty of positives from the game,” he added.
The former defender also praised the Nigeria Football Federation for arranging a high-quality friendly against elite opposition.
“These are the kinds of matches the team needs,” he stressed.
Sodje believes games against top nations will help prepare the Super Eagles for future challenges, particularly the upcoming AFCON qualifiers.
“Playing against world-class opposition helps the team improve faster,” many football observers believe.
The Super Eagles continue their rebuilding process with growing optimism surrounding the squad’s development.
For Sam Sodje, the message is clear.
Nigeria competed well against a top side.
Eric Chelle’s tactical ideas are producing results.
And the momentum gained from these friendlies must be carried into competitive fixtures.
Because facing elite opposition is one of the best ways to prepare for major tournaments.
