TheCable

Nigeria U-23 side, the Dream Team, had a nightmarish start to their quest of qualifying for the All-Africa Games as they were held 0-0 by Zambia in their first leg clash at the Abuja National Stadium on Sunday.

Nigeria had beaten Gabon 6-1 on aggregate prior to this game and were clear favourites to see off the Zambians, but the host were made to rue some missed chances in the match they dominated.

Warri Wolves striker, Oghenekaro Etebo, was at his most wasteful best after missing three chances with the goalkeeper at his mercy.

The Zambians were happy with soaking up the pressure allowing the Nigerians to set the pace of the game.

Nigeria continued their woeful outing in front of goal as Junior Ajayi and Etebo, yet again, couldn’t deliver when it mattered most.

Etebo hit the woodwork from a well taken overhead kick. But Samson Siaisa lost patience with Ajayi as he was hauled off the game.

The Zambians continued to frustrate the host on resumption of the second half as Nigeria couldn’t penetrate the mean defense of the visitors.

The Zambians held out for a heroic draw but would need to come out of their shell if they hope to win the second leg in Zambia in two weeks’ time.