We made many mistakes against Nigeria – Coach Burhan Tia

Sudan’s head coach has said making many mistakes cost them against Nigeria in a Group D TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) match played at the Roumde Adjia Stadium in Garoua on Saturday.

The Super Eagles went on to beat Sudan 3-1 to book a place in the last 16 of the competition.

“We did not defend well and also failed to close the spaces as a team. We were punished and we must change in our last group match against Egypt,” said Burhan Tia.

The experienced coach said his team tries to recover and played better in the second half. “We had our chances in the second half, but again failed to take them. In football you must take your chances or get punished,” added Tia.

Nigeria scored through goals from Samuel Chukwueze, Taiwo Awoniyi and Moses Simon ensured the Super Eagles picked their second straight win at the tournament in Cameroon.

The Falcons of Jediane fought back strongly before Walieldin Khidir Safour converted a penalty after 71 minutes. Nigerian defender Ola Aina handled the ball in the box.

The Sudan team who kick started the tournament with a goalless draw against Guinea Bissau will now face Egypt in the last group match.

Group D

                  P    W     D      L      GF  GA   GD  Pts

Nigeria      2     2      0       0        4      1      3      6

Egypt        2     1      0       1        1      1      0      3

G. Bissau  2     0      1       1        0      1      -1     1

Sudan        2     0      1       1        1      3      -2     1