Emeka Amadi defends under-fire Francis Uzoho for Zimbabwe goal 

By Wale Mustapha

In the wake of heavy criticism on Nigerian goalkeeper, Francis Uzoho after his yet another gaffe in the Super Eagles’ 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe on Sunday, former youth international, Emeka Amadi has leaped to the defense of the goalkeeper for the goal.

Uzoho is facing fresh internet attacks following his poor run of goalkeeping after conceding a long range free kick against the Warriors in the 2026 World Cup qualifying match.

Amadi, who was part of the Nigeria U20 team in the 1989 U20 World Cup has exonerated the embattled goalkeeper from Zimbabwe’s goal stating that it could be any world class keeper.

“It is not the fault of Francis Uzoho; the free-kick was well taken. The effort came from a place where no goalkeeper can save it,” he told Soccernet.ng.

“The ball swerved from in to out, making it hard for a keeper to make a save. So, for me, that ball can beat any goalkeeper.”

After two round of matches in the qualifiers, the Super Eagles could account for two points placing them second behind South Africa who could go six points after their match with Rwanda on Tuesday.

Nigeria’s next match in the qualifiers is a crucial home game against South Africa in June 2024.

The pressure intensifies as Nigeria strive to secure vital points in their quest for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.