AFCON 2021: I can do better – Super Eagles Sadiq Umar

Super Eagles forward Sadiq Umar admits he can do better after playing his third game in a row for Nigeria’s Super Eagles at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON2021) on Wednesday night.

Umar, 24, has come under fire from many Nigerians after his displays in the games against Egypt, Sudan and Guinea-Bissau.

The lanky forward scored Nigeria’s first goal in the 2-0 win over Guinea-Bissau in Garoua on Wednesday night but that goal came seconds before he was substituted by head coach Augustine Eguavoen.

In a chat to www.aclsports.com after the game, Umar first stated what the 56th minute goal meant to him.

“For me, it’s a special feeling and I hope this is the first of many. Scoring today is one of the best moments in my career. For me, my family and everyone that has been there for me,” said Umar.

The Almeria forward was handed a starting berth for the game against Guinea-Bissau with tournament’s first choice Taiwo Awoniyi rested.

In a general assessment of his performance, Umar believes he can give more to the team as he continues to learn.

“Of course I can do better, I can give more. The more you are into the team, the more you understand better.

“This is my first time being with the Super Eagles in a tournament like this so I’m just calm, loyal and humble and trying to learn a lot of things,” added Umar.

Nigeria are the only country to have won all their group stage games in the competition this year. Umar says the team will continue to take the competition game by game.

“Whenever Nigeria play in Africa, it is different. We are one of the best teams in Africa so we take it game by game and I hope we come out in flying colours,” he concluded.

Nigeria will play their round of 16 game on Sunday at the Stade Roumdé Adjia in Garoua. Their opponents will be confirmed after the conclusion of group stage games on Thursday.


Fisayo Dairo, reporting from Garoua.