Alex Iwobi, NigeriaBackpage

Iwobi begs for Nigeria support after Super Eagles' poor showing in shock loss against Guinea-Bissau

  • Iwobi was part of team that lost vs G.Bissau
  • Nigeria dropped to second in Group A
  • Everton midfielder makes a promise

WHAT HAPPENED: A 29th-minute strike by Troyes attacker Mama Balde was enough to silence thousands who had flocked to Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja to cheer the Super Eagles.

The loss relegated Nigeria to the second position - in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, with Djurtus going top of Group A with seven points, one more than their rivals.

Everton midfielder Iwobi has now begged for support from the fans who are still hurting after missing out on the World Cup, and who Victor Osimhen vowed to win their hearts back.

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WHAT HE SAID: "First and foremost, as players and staff, we know we have to react to this result," Iwobi told the media.

"All we can do is to improve and to all the fans, all I can say is that they should stick by us and support us because we give 100% not just for ourselves, but also for our nation.

"Next time we are going to do our best and make the country proud. We know we are privileged to wear the shirt, there are a lot of people who want to be in this position."

AND WHAT IS MORE: The former Arsenal attacker further denies pressure led to their shock loss.

"I don’t think we played under pressure. Like the coach said, they scored with the only chance they created in the game. There is always pressure at this level we can handle it," he added.

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Nigeria have won none of their last four matches in all competitions, conceding nine goals and scoring just once in the process.

Saturday's loss is a concern for Peseiro, considering the depth he has in all the departments - starting from the defence all the way to attack.

Victor Osimhen & Samuel Chukwueze, NigeriaBackpage Pix

Nigeria will now hope to win their next outing away and hope Sierra Leone drop points against Sao Tome & Principe, for them to qualify for the finals with two games to spare.

WHAT NEXT: Peseiro has to rectify the mistakes seen on Saturday ahead of their game against the same opponent on Monday.

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