Former Nigerian international Vincent Enyeama has defended goalkeeper Francis Uzoho after the Super Eagles were denied a place in the 2022 FIFA World Cup due to his error.
After Ghana defeated the Super Eagles to qualify for Qatar, Enyeama urged Nigerians to look beyond their immediate disappointment and plan for the future.
“It’s past time for us to face the future and keep moving forward.” In an interview with Channels Television, Enyeama said, “I don’t want to assign blame.”
Omonia Nicosia goalkeeper Francis Uzoho bore the brunt of the blame for the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for this year’s World Cup after allowing Thomas Partey’s drive from beyond the box to slip under him and into the net.
“It’s unfortunate that everyone was discussing goalkeeping before the game. In the build-up to big games, these guys have to deal with a lot of pressure.
“Everyone wants another Vincent Enyeama in Uzoho, everyone wants another Vincent Enyeama in Akpeyi and Okoye, which is extremely difficult and puts a tremendous amount of pressure on the young lads.”
Enyeama is widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest goalkeepers of all time, a position he earned by consistently performing well for both club and country.
What I did for Nigeria is difficult to comprehend; only time will tell.
“I’m going to say we’re going to have to make do with what we’ve got.” I didn’t see much of the match, but the truth is that there is only one Vincent Enyeama, and all we have to do now is encourage and support him; these guys need confidence.”
Nigeria will be making their seventh appearance at the international tournament, while Ghana will be making their fourth.
