Super Eagles’ defender, Leon Balogun, has explained why Gernot Rohr’s side struggled in their friendly against Democratic Republic of Congo on Monday evening at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt.
William Ekong scored for Nigeria in the 15th minute of the first half while Mpoku Paul-Jose equalized for the Congolese with a penalty in the 77th minute.
Balogun, who recently joined the Premier League side, Brighton, said the three-time African champions held five gruesome training sessions before the match with the Leopards which made them fatigued hence could not put in their best performance.
”If you think about the fact that most of the players were very tired today from last day’s training, then the performance was all right,” Balogun told allnigeriasoccer.
”Of course, there’s always room for improvement, but this has been the first game after a long and hard week of training. So, I think we can be satisfied with the outcome.”
Balogun added, ”I am very excited it’s getting closer, closer and closer. For now, I am just looking forward to the next preparation match which is England. This is also an amazing atmosphere, scenery of the stadium of Wembley.
”I am sure once we get to Russia, the goose bumps and all the excitement will be released to be as successful as possible.
“My message to Nigerians is to thank you for all the support you have given us so far, and continue believing us. Give us your prayers and hopefully we can reward you. ”
Balogun will feature for Rohr’s side when they face England on June 2 at Wembley, before facing Czech Republic in their final pre-World Cup game in Austria on 6 June.
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