Moses Usor stakes claim for Nigeria starting place after Tanzania impact

Moses Usor’s half-time introduction helped Nigeria turn a 1-1 match into a 3-1 victory over Tanzania in Uyo, strengthening his case for a role in Tuesday’s return leg in Zanzibar.

The Super Eagles had taken an early lead through Alhassan Yusuf, but Tanzania equalised before the interval. Eric Chelle responded by sending on Usor and Tolu Arokodare at half-time, and Nigeria’s performance changed within 15 minutes.

Arokodare restored Nigeria’s advantage seven minutes after the restart, finishing from a pass by Wilfred Ndidi. Afrik-Foot also credited Usor with contributing to the move, reporting that one of his deliveries helped create the opportunity for Ndidi’s final pass.

Usor then played a direct role in the third goal. On the hour mark, the LASK forward sent a cross into the penalty area, where Arokodare controlled the ball and completed his second goal of the match.

The winger had arrived in camp in good form. Just days before the international break, he provided an assist in LASK’s 4-0 Champions League win over Slovan Bratislava, as Soccernet reported at the time.

Afrik-Foot highlighted the effect of his arrival, stating: “Usor changed the complexion of the match after replacing Alhassan Yusuf at half-time.” Sports247 similarly praised his contribution, saying he was “changing the tempo of Nigeria’s attack after coming off the bench”.

Nigeria’s second-half dominance was reflected in the match statistics. The Super Eagles ended the game with 67.8% possession and 17 attempts, including seven on target, while Tanzania managed nine shots.

Lookman fitness could influence Chelle’s decision

Usor’s performance gives Chelle another option on the wing, particularly with Ademola Lookman’s availability uncertain. Lookman went off late in the first half with a knee problem, and Moses Simon replaced him during the match.

If Lookman is ruled out of Tuesday’s fixture, Chelle will have to decide whether to select Simon’s experience or the energy and attacking directness Usor supplied in Uyo.

The coach could also retain Usor as an impact substitute. His ability to alter the game from the bench may be useful in a qualifier Nigeria must win, especially if the score remains level at half-time in Zanzibar.

Usor’s second-half display has therefore placed him firmly in contention, alongside Simon, the player who replaced Lookman, and Arokodare, whose two goals he helped create. Chelle will name his team before the return leg, which kicks off at 14:00 WAT on Tuesday.