Pressure now on Nigeria, says Ghana coach Addo

Ghana’s interim head coach Otto Addo says pressure has now shifted from his side to Nigeria as their 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier head for the decisive leg.

The Black Stars were held to a 0-0 draw by the Super Eagles in their first leg fixture decided in Kumasi on Friday night.

Addo who was in charge of the team for the first time believes the result does not change anything in the tie.

“The result doesn’t change anything. We wanted to win and when we go to Nigeria, we want to win as well,” began the former Black Stars player at the post-match press conference.

“I think the Nigerians saw that we can play as well. They were not here or there. They have high quality players but it was equal. The pressure will be on them also because away goal can hurt a lot.”

Friday’s game was decided at Ghana’s much heralded slaughter’s slab; the Baba Yara Stadium but the over 40,000 fans were sometimes left dumb as their team failed to break down the resilient Eagles.

Addo had good words for the fans but highlighted areas they have to improve on.

“I love the Kumasi fans but one thing in general, when things go right, they’re there. This is good. But in general, a team need their fans most when things go wrong so I think they can improve on that.

“Yes I love to play here, before the game, everything was just overwhelming, they came in numbers, they supported us and it was unbelievable,” added Addo.

The decisive leg takes place at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja on Tuesday with winner going through to the 2022 FIFA World Cup Russia.

Fisayo Dairo was in Kumasi, Ghana