Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu has played down concerns following Nigeria’s 2-1 defeat to Egypt in a preparatory friendly on Tuesday night, insisting there is no cause for alarm.
The Pharaohs claimed bragging rights when both sides clashed in their warmup encounter for the 2025 African Cup of Nations at the Cairo International Stadium, leaving plenty to ponder for Nigerian head coach Eric Chelle.
The former Mali head coach started with a much-changed lineup, although the three-time African champions will be buoyed by the return of goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who had injury doubts heading into the tournament.
Speaking after the clash, Onuachu who started as the center forward in the absence of talisman Victor Osimhen, believes the team are well prepared to secure glory in Morocco.
“I felt good playing against them, especially knowing that I had scored against Egypt in the past, I had a good feeling during the game, and you could see that in my performance”, the Trabzonspor forward said.
Mahmoud Saber opened the scoring for Egypt in the first half, although Chidozie Awaziem equalized for Nigeria on the stroke of halftime.
The Pharaohs reclaimed the lead in the second half, when Mostafa Mohamed found the back of the net after poor defending by the Super Eagles.
Despite several half-chances to equalize, Nigeria were unable to find the back of the net for a second time as the game ended 2-1 in favor of the hosts.
“I played with a lot of confidence and focused on playing my game. Unfortunately, we lost and the goal didn’t come this time, but I still felt good on the pitch.
“I think both the team and I had a good game,” he concluded.
Nigeria begin their 2025 African Cup of Nations campaign on the 23rd of December, when they face Tanzania at the Fez Stadium.
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