Unity Cup: Azeez Bags Brace On Debut As Eagles Reach Final

Unity Cup: Azeez Bags Brace On Debut As Eagles Reach Final

New Super Eagles winger Femi Azeez made a perfect start to life in Nigeria colours on Tuesday, scoring twice in a 2-0 win over Zimbabwe in the Unity Cup semi-final at The Valley in London.

Azeez was among the 12 debutants invited for Nigeria’s title defence in London, and the Millwall forward got the nod to start in an XI filled with new faces. He scored in either half to send Nigeria into Saturday’s final.

Goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo started in goal, while Rangers International defensive duo Chibueze Oputa and Kenneth Igboke were also handed starting berths alongside Millwall forward Azeez.

In the absence of Wilfred Ndidi, 2023 AFCON silver medallist Terem Moffi led the line and captained the side.

Heavy favourites at kick-off at The Valley in Charlton, Nigeria took the lead with their first meaningful attack of the game. Debutant Philip Otele tried to break into the box but was stopped, and the ball fell kindly to Moffi, who laid it on a plate for Azeez to fire a low left-footed strike into the bottom corner from the edge of the box.

Moffi nearly doubled Nigeria’s lead moments later but was unlucky. Azeez also tried another effort from distance, but it was comfortably gathered by the goalkeeper.

At the other end, some nervy moments allowed the Warriors to advance into Nigeria’s box, but they barely tested Okonkwo.

Zimbabwe started the second half better and enjoyed more possession. Their movement and coordination in the final third created more work for Nigeria’s defence, led by Igoh Ogbu and Chibuike Nwaiwu.

Having weathered the early pressure, Nigeria doubled their lead after the hour mark. A swift counterattack ended with Azeez finishing calmly after another fine piece of work from Moffi down the left.

After going two goals ahead, Okonkwo was tested from distance by Jonah Fabisch and was equal to the task. Coach Eric Chelle then made a couple of changes, introducing Rafiu Durosinmi, Tosin Oyedokun and Oseni Owen for Terem Moffi, Samson Tijani and Philip Otele.