World Cup: Four goalkeepers who could bring something special to Super Eagles
The Super Eagles of Nigeria have a goalkeeper problem and Nigerians are understandably antsy.
Football fans appear to lack confidence in Ikechukwu Ezenwa, Daniel Akpeyi and Dele Alampasu ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
Talks of a return of Vincent Enyeama to the team has heightened of late but he remains adamant that he’s done with the Super Eagles.
In lieu of Enyeama, here are four goalkeepers capable of bringing something special to the Super Eagles.
Francis Uzoho (Deportivo La Caruna)
The Aspire Academy product is a man with a bright future. He has been active with the B side of Deportivo and has also played two games with the main team.
Uzoho underscored his readiness for the big stage with a breathtaking performance on his Super Eagles debut against Argentina.
He has great awareness even when his team has possession of the ball and he is excellent in one-on-one situations.
Maduka Okoye (Fortuna Düsseldorf)
The young lad’s skill of properly organising his defence line is a major asset. His height is also an advantage.
Okoye, German-born, is athletic, agile and has great area ability.
He will give other keepers a run for their money if given the chance to prove himself.
Dele Aiyenugba (Hapoel Ashlekon)
At 34, many might say Aiyenugba is at the twilight of his career and way past his prime but goalkeepers get better with age.
Ask Gigi Buffon, Van der Saar, Dino Zoff, Peter Shilton, Jacques Sango and Oliver Khan.
Aiyenugba is a good shot-stopper, has great area ability and excellent technique. He is also calm with the ball at his feet and has the tendency to initiate attack for the team.
Dele Ajiboye (Plateau United)
The former Golden Eaglets and Flying Eagles goalie played a major role in Plateau United’s Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL)-winning season in 2017.
His reputation further soared with a superlative show at the recently concluded NPFL Invitational.
Terrific footwork and great passing are characteristics that are not inherent in a lot of goalkeepers but Ajiboye has both.
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