New York, June 2, 2022

Nigerians in New Jersey have expressed disappointment over the Super Eagles’ 0-1 loss to Ecuador at the Red Bull Arena in Harrison, New Jersey on Thursday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Ecuador won with an early goal by Pervis Estupinan in the Super Eagles second international friendly with new Coach, José Santos Peseiro.

Some Nigerian football enthusiasts who spoke with NAN on condition of anonymity after the match, said it was disappointing that the team could not win the fast-paced game.

“We had many chances, but we could not convert them to goals. It’s so disappointing. We should have won the game.

“I don’t know why we could not win any of the two friendlies in the U.S.,” another football enthusiast said.

In coach Peseiro’s first outing with the squad, an under-strength Nigeria had put up a gallant fight but were unlucky to lose 1-2 to Mexico in a game in Dallas last Saturday.

Another enthusiast said the team played better in the second half of the game against Ecuador but could not score any goal.

The Super Eagles are using the friendlies as part of preparation for next month’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023 qualifying matches against Sierra Leone and Mauritius.

Peseiro had earlier said that he was proud of the team in spite of their 1-2 loss to Mexico.

The Portuguese also hailed players from the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), for their performance in the game.

“Although we didn’t win last night, I am very proud of the boys,” Peseiro wrote on his official twitter handle after the match against Mexico.

“The team showed character and resilience. A special mention to the four NPFL players who had the chance to debut with the national team,” Peseiro had said.