The Super Eagles of Nigeria encountered a setback, losing 2-0 in a friendly match against Guinea.
The match, which took place on Monday at the Bani Yas Stadium in Abu Dhabi, was in preparation for the upcoming 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) scheduled to commence on February 13th in Cote d’Ivoire.
According to updates provided on the official X page of the Super Eagles, Guinea secured the lead with the first goal in the 14th minute of the game, as noted in the live commentary: “14’ Nigeria concedes! NGA 0-1 GUI.”
A penalty was subsequently awarded to Nigeria in the 19th minute, with the live update reporting: “19’ Penalty awarded to Nigeria as Umar is hacked down.”
However, the Guinean goalkeeper denied Simon a goal from the penalty spot, as indicated in the note: “20’ Penalty Missed! Guinean goalie denies Simon a goal from the penalty spot.”
Despite the Eagles’ efforts to equalize, the first half concluded with Guinea in the lead, 1-0.
In the 64th minute, Nigeria conceded a second goal, resulting in a 2-0 loss to Guinea in their first pre-AFCON friendly.
Nigeria, with three previous AFCON titles in 1980, 1994, and 2013, is aiming for a fourth title.
The Eagles are set to face Equatorial Guinea in their first Group A match on January 14, followed by a match against the host nation Ivory Coast four days later.
On January 22, they will play against Guinea Bissau in their final Group A encounter.
Guinea, also placed in a challenging group, will contend with Cameroon, Gambia, and defending champions Senegal in this year’s AFCON.
