In the wake of defensive struggles plaguing the Super Eagles in recent games under coach Jose Peseiro, a glimmer of hope has emerged in the form of former Remo Stars General Olisa Ndah, who is making waves at Orlando Pirates.
The Nigerian national team has faced challenges in their backline, conceding cheap goals in their last four outings against Saudi Arabia, Mozambique, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe. With preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations in Cote D’Ivoire looming, concerns over the team’s defensive capabilities are growing.
The central defense has been a particularly problematic area for the Super Eagles under Peseiro, with a limited pool of defenders considered of top international quality.
However, recent performances by 25-year-old Olisa Ndah at Orlando Pirates suggest that he could be the answer to the team’s defensive woes.
Under the guidance of coach Jose Riveiro, Ndah has played a pivotal role in helping Orlando Pirates secure three clean sheets in their last five games in the DSTV Premiership. His standout statistics make a compelling case for a Super Eagles call-up.
Ndah’s remarkable clearances and success in winning duels on the pitch underscore his status as one of Nigeria’s most in-form defenders.
His ability to read the game intelligently has been a highlight, demonstrated through strategic defensive positioning and numerous interceptions.
One of Ndah’s primary defensive attributes is his knack for intercepting the ball, often making it appear as though he attracts the ball to himself.
His intelligent reading of the game and defensive positioning afford him optimal off-the-ball placements, providing a crucial advantage in winning the ball back in the final third.
A product of Akwa United, Ndah joined Orlando Pirates in 2021, and his impressive performances have not gone unnoticed. Clubs overseas have expressed interest in the burgeoning defender, adding an extra layer of validation to his rising status.
Having been part of the Super Eagles squad in the previous Africa Cup of Nations, where he featured in one match, Ndah is now positioned as a viable solution for Peseiro’s defensive concerns.
As the team gears up for the AFCON in Cote D’Ivoire, all eyes are on whether Olisa Ndah will be the missing piece in fortifying the Super Eagles’ backline.
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