By John Essien
Super Eagles Assistant Coach Joseph Yobo has expressed delight over the defensive partnership of William Troost-Ekong and Kenneth Omeruo at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cameroon.
In the absence of Leon Balogun, Troost-Ekong and Omeruo have marshalled the Eagles’ central defence and their partnership have continued to yield dividends as the team is yet to concede any goal from open play after two matches.
Omeruo had suffered a knock in the opening fixture, leaving Coach Austin Eguavoen’s led technical crew with much concern defensively, while Orlando Pirates’ Olisa Ndah became the only back up at the rear after Chidozie Awaziem reportedly conceived an injury.
However, Omeruo returned just in time to help the Super Eagles to a 3-1 victory over Sudan on Saturday.
Nigeria conceded her first goal at the tournament after Sudanese star Walieldin Khedr grabbed a consolation from the penalty spot.
Reacting to his team performance, Yobo had singled out both central defenders for praise.
“I am very pleased with the central defenders as players come in and out,” he continued.
“It is a partnership and not all about individual performance. This is what we keep working on. In the two games, it was only a penalty that was scored against us.”
Omeruo could be replaced by West Bromwich Albion’s Semi Ajayi in Wednesday’s fixture versus Guinea Bissau.
The Djurtus are in dire need of a win against Augustine Eguavoen’s men to stand a chance of progressing to the Round of 16.
