Nigeria’s African Nations Championship campaign began with a low-key 0-0 draw against Rwanda in Tangier on Monday, but coach Salisu Yusuf has hailed the impact of teenage forward Sunday Faleye after a bright display.
The 19-year-old was arguably Nigeria’s best performer during a toothless display in which Rabiu Ali twice hit the woodwork as the fancied West Africans struggled to break down Rwanda’s disciplined defensive unit.
Faleye, a revelation during the 2016-17 NPFL season for Shooting Stars, was included in Yusuf’s squad ahead of some more experienced names, and caught the eye during a vibrant showing against Rwanda.
“He did very well,” Yusuf told KweséESPN after the Eagles’ stalemate. “He was so tired so I had to rest him as we have to play on our top game, but he’s good, he’s young, has potential, and I believe he can do much, much better in the next game.”
The youngster’s most notable contribution was a header in the eighth minute which he sent against the bar after the ball was parried into his path by Rwandan stopper Eric Ndayishimiye.
