By John Essien
Head Coach Jose Peseiro has responded to the criticisms that trailed his starting line-up after the Super Eagles secured a 2-1 victory over Sierra Leone to begin their quest for qualification on a front foot.
The 62-year-old tactician had started the game against the Leone Stars with an attacking 4-4-2 formation without playing any natural central or defensive midfielders to shield the defence.
Two attack-minded players in Joe Aribo and Alex Iwobi started in that role for the Eagles which made the Nigerian team susceptible to Sierra Leone’s blistering counterattacks.
However, the outcome of the fixture handed Peseiro his first victory in charge of the Super Eagles from three matches since he joined the side to replace German Gernot Rohr.
Despite securing maximum points, cross section of fans are still in doubt over his ability to lead the team, but Peseiro defended his decision to start the two natural attacking midfielders, insisting he picks his starting XI according to the game plan.
“I can play any player, I make the final decision. If I ask you, to give me your XI, it will be different from others,” Peseiro told reporters. “I believe in my players, it’s my responsibility to select the players according to our plans.”
The victory saw the Super Eagles stay second in Group A with three points, the same as leaders Guinea-Bissau, who hammered Sao Tome Principe 5-1 in another fixture at Stade Adrar also on Thursday.
Nigeria will travel to face Sao Tome in their matchday two fixture at Stade Adrar on June 13.
