In what was dubbed as the biggest match of the 2021 AFCON so far, Nigeria and Egypt reignited their rivalry at the Roumde Adjia Stadium earlier today. A first half strike from Leicester City striker Kelechi Iheanacho was the difference as the Super Eagles outclassed their North African opponents to take control of Group D.
There were plenty of positivity in the performance of the three time African Champions who were dominant throughout the game. However, Mohamed Salah was a shadow of himself as Nigeria’s midfield set-up cut off any supply of pass to the Egyptian captain. The Liverpool’s talisman was entirely locked down by Wilfred Ndidi and Joel Aribo with little to show for his 90-minute effort.
Truth be told, Salah was starved of any real opportunity to Influence the game as the men from West Africa kept him on a tight leash. With their captain subsdued, Africa’s most successful nation struggled to service their frontline as a lot of their possession led to very little in Nigeria’s attacking third.
Take nothing away from Salah’s abilities, but Nigeria were simply too strong for him to enjoy his best game. It could have easily being 3-0 or 4-0 had the Super Eagles made the most of their chances, but in the end they did collect all three points against a disappointing Egypt to demonstrate that they are bona fide candidates to win the Africa Cup of Nations.
While Eguavoen and his team have enjoyed a perfect start, Mohamed Salah will be hoping for a more better output when his side take on Guinea-Bissau this Saturday.
