The Super Eagles went into Friday’s match against Guinea Bissau with the hope of victory, but the Djurtus had a game plan which was deployed to perfection as they emerged as 1-0 winners. A first-half goal from Mama Balde, in the 29th minute, sent the 118th-ranked team to the top of Group A.
Jose Peseiro started a similar team to the one beaten 4-0 by Portugal last November. Zaidu Sanusi replaced William Troost-Ekong while Joe Aribo, Moses Simon, and Terem Moffi started on the bench. Guinea Bissau goalkeeper Dalcio Gomes made his first save off Osimhen in the 16th minute after a pass from Kelechi Iheanacho sent the Napoli forward through.
Balde shocked the Abuja Stadium crowd in the 30th minute when he deftly collected the lofted ball from Opa Sangante from beyond the halfway line. Both Nigeria’s central defenders – Calvin Bassey and Kevin Akpoguma – were caught dithering. Balde controlled and had time to pass the ball beyond the despairing dive of Francis…
