Nigerians react as Super Eagles romp to final,dismiss Mali 4-1

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Written by Abdullateef Abubakar Jos

For many fans, who had been sceptical of the Eagles form since the start of the competition, it was time to switch positions, particularly considering the impressive quality of play and the wide goals margin.

More importantly, President Goodluck Jonathan, whose motivational pre-game pep talk must have added impetus to the national team to go all out for victory, would have to fulfil his promise to watch the final at the South African National Stadium in Johannesburg.

The Eagles had hit the scoring form, through Elderson Echiejile, who secured the first goal in the 25th minute with Brown Ideye scored the second in the 30th.

Emmanuel Emenike, currently in the running for the top scorer position, hit the net in the 44th to notch up four goals so far, while substitute, Ahmed Musa, scored the fourth in the 60th.

However, Mali managed to pull one back in the 75th through Cheick Fantamady Diarra.

The Super Eagles generally dominated the match, solidly defending and breaking through the Malian defence regularly with their quick attacks.

Reacting to the victory, Taiwo Ogunjobi, the Chairman of the Osun State Football Agency, described the victory as well deserved. It was a well-done job by the coaching crew, he said.

In response to his projection for the team in the final, Ogunjobi said: ``If the Super Eagles can play with more dedication, they can win the trophy.

``It was a beautiful match. Our players played well, we have seen a lot of improvements in the team which is highly commendable and they have made us proud.

``If they can continue to play like they did today, they will win the trophy, no matter who they meet in the final. The Super Eagles are back and we hope that they sustain it,’’ Ogunjobi added.