AFCON 2021: Eguavoen Wants More From Under Fire Sadiq

AFCON 2021: Eguavoen Wants More From Under Fire Sadiq

The Super Eagles striker scored a goal on his full debut against Guinea-Bissau, but his performance was not convincing 

Super Eagles gaffer Augustine Eguavoen has criticised striker Sadiq Umar for his average performance against Guinea-Bissau, but he stated that the Almeria man could still improve.

Umar got his full debut in Nigeria’s final group stage game against Guinea-Bissau, but he failed to impress. The Almeria man struggled with the ball on his feet and was wasteful in front of goal.

But fortunately, his night was saved thanks to a brilliant pass from Kelechi Iheanacho, which he calmly finished from close range.

The 24-year-old striker’s performance in the game left many Super Eagles fans with question marks over his quality.

And ahead of the game against Tunisia on Sunday, Eguavoen shared the views of the fans, criticising Umar for his mistakes. However, he admitted that the former Olympic Bronze medallist still has time to improve.

“He should look for assist before he scores goals,” Eguavoen said at his pre-match press conference.

“Sadiq has scored a good number of goals for his club side, and I reminded him that his primary duty is to score goals or create assists.”

“I know his instinct is to score goals as a striker, but he should pass to assist.”

“I believe Sadiq is an important part of this team,” Eguavoen added.

It is unlikely that Umar would lead the Super Eagles again, but it appears he is next in the pecking order behind Taiwo Awoniyi.