Moses Usor says instant understanding with Abdullahi Bewene can benefit Super Eagles

Moses Usor says his effective partnership with Abdullahi Bewene against Tanzania developed instinctively, despite the Nigeria pair having never played or trained together before Friday’s 3-1 victory.

The LASK FC forward was introduced in the second half of the match in Uyo and quickly established a productive relationship with right-back Bewene. Their combination repeatedly unsettled the Taifa Stars’ defence and helped create several opportunities for the Super Eagles.

Usor said to Football Temple that the understanding emerged during the match rather than through any previous work together.

“It just happened on the field of play. This is the first time I am playing with him. This is the first time I am meeting him,” Usor revealed.

“So, it just happened. Even in training, we have not that played together.”

Although the two players had no prior experience of playing alongside one another, Usor said Bewene’s awareness and understanding of the game allowed them to complement each other.

“It just happened on the pitch. He is a good player and he understands football and me and it worked out for the team,” he added.

The 24-year-old also called on Nigeria to remain focused ahead of Tuesday’s return fixture against Tanzania. The Super Eagles will travel for the second meeting with the Taifa Stars seeking to reproduce the unity and determination that secured victory in the opening encounter.

“In Tanzania, we just have to stay humble and take it step-by-step. The way we are as a team, we still have to fight like a team like the last game,” Usor advised.

“The thing is just sticking together and playing as planned.”

Usor will hope to build on his influential appearance when Nigeria face Tanzania in the return leg of the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.

Nigeria are second in the group standings, one point behind leaders Guinea-Bissau. The Super Eagles are aiming to preserve their momentum as they compete for the group’s only qualification ticket for the tournament.