Super Eagles defender Chidozie Awaziem scored his second international goal as Nigeria fell 2-1 to Egypt in a pre-Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) friendly on Tuesday night.

Following the match, Awaziem reflected on the encounter, describing it as a valuable test for the team ahead of the tournament.

Awaziem said, “It was a good test for us. Egypt is not an easy country to play against. They have couple of numbers of good players and yeah I think the the purpose of the the game was for us to test our ability for the AFCON and you know for the coach also to try new players to try other other tactic and you know prepare good for the for the AFCON.”

Despite the defeat, the defender emphasized the importance of the match as an opportunity to evaluate the squad.

“So I think it was a good test though the result wasn't wasn't good wasn't what we wanted but yeah I mean the the main focus like I said was just for the for us to see a different structure different players newly invited players to watch them play and, you know, see what they can contribute to the team and I think the coach already saw that,” Awaziem added.

The match saw Egypt take an early lead through Mahmoud Saber before Nigeria responded through Awaziem’s headed goal following a fumble by Egyptian goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy.

Egypt regained the advantage in the second half when Mostafa Mohamed converted a chance created by Zizo, ensuring the Pharaohs finished on top.

Awaziem highlighted the positives for the Super Eagles despite the loss. “I think right now we just take the positive parts of the the game and and then move to the Afcon because yeah for us was a was a good test. I mean, we dominated the game. We we had them sit back and, you know, we had so many chances to score, but yeah, we just take the positive side like I said and and and then we move on.”

The Super Eagles will depart for Morocco later this week for the final phase of training ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which begins on Sunday.

The three-time Africa champions have been drawn in Group C alongside Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda, and will face Tanzania in their opening game on Tuesday, December 23.

Wale Adejumo