By George Essien
Super Eagles defender Kenneth Omeruo has showered praises on the team’s physios and doctors after he recovered from a knock just in time to help Nigeria beat Sudan 3-1 on Saturday.
Omeruo featured for the entire duration of the game as the Super Eagles booked their place in the second round of the ongoing 2021 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cameroon.
The CD Leganes centre-back was replaced in the 79th minute by Semi Ajayi in the high-profile clash against seven-time champions Egypt, after he suffered a knock that threatened to rule him out of Saturday’s match with the Falcons of Sudan.
Just like in the first game against Egypt before his injury-forced substitution, Omeruo put up a solid showing at the back as goals from Samuel Chukwueze, Taiwo Awoniyi and Moses Simon helped the three-time African champions thrash the Sudanese 3-1.
“I’m happy, kudos to the physios, the doctors, they made sure every day they check on me, they gave me the proper treatment to keep me ready for the game,” the 28-year-old former Middlesbrough defender said.
“I wasn’t 100% (fit), but with their help, I could manage.”
With two wins in as many games, Nigeria are through to the last 16 of the tournament, with a game against Guinea Bissau to spare.
The former Chelsea player says the Super Eagles are now focused on the next game, while hoping to eventually lift the AFCON title in Cameroon.
“I’m proud of the team,” he said, of the team’s performance so far. “It means we are ready for the tournament and we have to focus on the next game; to play and try to top the group.
“We have to take every game serious, and come out strong and try to win to top the group.
“We appreciate the support (from the fans). It was massive support from the first game and we hope and pray we can bring the Cup home.”
Nigeria will next face minnows Guinea Bissau on Wednesday in their last Group D encounter in Garoua by 19:00GMT.
