Former Super Eagles attacker Obinna Nsofor has backed striking duo Tolu Arokodare and Cyriel Dessers the step up to the plate in Nigeria’s upcoming World Cup qualifying clash with South Africa, Footynaija.com reports.
The Super Eagles head to South Africa with a huge blow in attack after first-choice striker Victor Osimhen suffered an ankle injury in the first half of Saturday’s narrow 1-0 victory over the Amavubi of Rwanda.
Osimhen has been ruled out of the upcoming clash set to take place at the Free State Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, following further scans by the Super Eagles medical team and is expected to return to Turkey for treatment.
The absence of Nigeria’s most prolific striker at the moment certainly deals a huge blow to the team but Nsofor, who racked up 48 caps for the Super Eagles, is placing his faith in Arokodare and Dessers ahead of Tuesday’s game.
Obinna Nsofor backs Arokodare and Dessers
“It is a shame Osimhen will not be available for the South Africa and Nigeria game because he is Nigeria’s best player and would have been a huge weapon for the Super Eagles,” Nsofor said in an interview with Footy-Africa.
“He is a player who has proven to be a team player, and in big games like this, his presence alone could intimidate opponents. However, I believe that we have talented players in the team like Tolu (Arokodare) and Dessers that can make an impact to help the team win the match in South Africa.
“Obviously, it is going to be a tough match for the Super Eagles because South Africa also wants to be at the next World Cup.
“At the end of the day, it all comes down to how obsessed and determined the Nigerian players are to give everything they have to get the required three points. That result will give them the motivation to win the remaining matches and qualify for the World Cup.”
Arokodare scored Nigeria’s winner against Rwanda after coming off the bench in the second half and that goal will give him plenty of confidence heading into Tuesday’s game.
Dessers also showed that he could be a decisive figure upfront when Eric Chelle relied on him during the Unity Cup. He’ll also be confident of leading the Super Eagles attack if that mantle falls on him come Tuesday.