Benin Republic Head Coach, Gernot Rohr has backed Francis Uzoho to shine if given the chance to man the post for the Super Eagles of Nigeria at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire, platinumnewsng.com is reporting.
However, the Omonoia FC shot-stopper has heavily come under criticism from Nigerians due to his poor performances between the sticks for the men’s senior national team. This, however, was speculated to have been the reason for the inclusion of Chippa United’s Stanley Nwabali, who would compete for the first-choice position in Côte d’Ivoire.
The 25-year-old made his Super Eagles debut under Gernot Rohr in a friendly game against Argentina in 2017. Subsequently, before making his first appearance at a major tournament for Nigeria at the Russia 2018 FIFA World Cup but no thanks to the German tactician.
Speaking in an exclusive chat with a renowned reporter, Osasu Obayiuwana, Rohr believes Uzoho and the Super Eagles’ squad for AFCON 2023 have what it takes to perform at this year’s tournament.
“Uzoho can do the job. I don’t know if there is a better one. Nigeria is one of the favourites, of course. I saw the list. So many great players and [with] experience. The strikers are fantastic. They need Eaglesity to be complete. They can find the strikers with direct football,” he said.
Meanwhile, the three-time African champions will take on Guinea in an exhibition match on Monday, January 8, as part of preparations for the competition ahead of their campaign in Group A against Equatorial Guinea on Sunday, January 14.