By Babalola Seyi
As the crucial Qatar 2022 World Cup qualifier between Nigeria and Cape Verde approaches, fans are growing concerned about the team’s terrible home record.
On Tuesday, the three-time African champions face the Blue Sharks in the last Group C qualifying game at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos (today).
A draw will be enough to send them to the next round of qualifications, while a loss will see the Blue Sharks advance from Group C to the playoffs.
After five matches, the Super Eagles lead Group C with 12 points, two more than second-placed Cape Verde.
The Eagles’ sole loss in the qualifications occurred in Lagos against the Central African Republic.
Gernot Rohr’s only defeats in any qualification games have all come at home, a record that has fans nervous.
Meanwhile, Cape Verde’s last loss in the World Cup qualifying series was a 2-1 loss to Nigeria in September, and they have since won three straight games and have yet to lose an away game since the start of the qualifiers.
Speaking with newsmen, Wole Popoola, a tech engineer, said he was concerned ahead of the game in Lagos.
“I don’t know why I am seriously worried and afraid to watch the game against Cape Verde. We lost our last game and a repeat of that could spell doom for the team.
“I really want the team to go to the next phase but I don’t have confidence in this coach and I guess that’s why I am afraid.”
Daniel Ebhodaghe added, “A lot of people seems not to know much about this Cape Verde side, they re very determined and focus. I just realised that they have not lost any away game in this qualifier and that is a big concern.
“I must admit that I see a repeat of what happened in the game against CAR where they will just sit back and hit us when it is going to really hurt.”
“There is no doubt that we are blessed with a lot of quality players but my concern is that they have not been able to play as a team,” Ethan Ajegunma said.
“The game against Liberia was a testament to this because we didn’t play very well despite the victory. I am worried heading into this game and I am not sure if I will be able to watch it.”
Funke Akintoroye, a student said not qualifying for the World Cup would be a disaster for the country.
