Rohr says Nigeria are working to solve goalscoring problems at AFCON

Nigeria head coach Gernot Rohr has said that the squad are working hard to solve the goalscoring crisis during the group stage of the African Cup of Nations. The west African nation managed only 1-0 triumphs over Burundi and Guinea in the group stage before suffering a shock 2-0 loss to competition debutants Madagascar.

As such, they ended the group phase with a goal difference of zero and that has brought about criticism over the style of play implemented. Speaking to reporters, Rohr acknowledged that the team has not played to the best of their abilities and that has largely come about from the opposition being defensively organised.

He added that the Super Eagles gifted the opening goal in the shock loss to Madagascar and they will be aiming to make amends when they tackle Cameroon at the quarter-final stage, he said: “I know we have problems with scoring of goals, especially against teams who are well organised defensively.

“Madagascar didn’t give us space to play, they defended together and our wingers were not able to break through. The performance was better in the second half, but it wasn’t enough. We gifted the first goal and they became stronger, we have to work on our scoring problems and solve the problems before our next game.”

Nigeria have been regarded as one of the top five favourites to win the continental crown but they face a tricky game against holders Cameroon at the round of 16 stage. On paper, Nigeria seem to have the slight edge over their west African rivals but they need to produce a good showing on the attack front where they have disappointed during the group stage.

Elsewhere, a number of top contenders including hosts Egypt have made the last 16 of the competition and it remains to be seen whether there are any surprises entering into the quarter finals. Madagascar could be one of the teams to watch out for after making a strong impression at the group phase despite being 108th in the FIFA rankings.