Super Eagles B preparations for the 2016 edition of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) took a stern test on Wednesday with a 1-1 draw against the Palancas Negras of Angola in a warm-up match.
The international friendly encounter between the two CHAN bound teams played at the Tuks Stadium in Pretoria, South Africa saw the Sunday Oliseh-led Eagles dominate from start to finish but unable to utilize their goal-scoring chances.
Although, the Eagles eventually took the lead six minutes from time through Ikechukwu Ibenegbu strike from the penalty spot, Angola drew level moments later from a corner kick. The Angolans had earlier squandered an opportunity to take the lead when a penalty kick won by the team was blown off target by Adriano Duarte Nicolau.
The Super Eagles also had an early scare in the game when the impressive Sunshine Stars defensive midfielder, Paul Onobi was taken off due to a slight knock.
The Super Eagles technical crew injected fresh blood to the team with the introduction of Ibrahim Salawu, Osas Okoro, Kalu Orji, Jamiu Alimi, and the impressive Okiemute Odah in the second half.
Substitute Odah denied the Angolans with sharp reflex saves in the 52nd and 59th minutes respectively.
The Super Eagles B team will play Ivory Coast in their last pre-tournament friendly match on January 11 before heading to Rwanda for the tournament.
Nigeria placed third at their only appearance at the CHAN finals, in 2014 in South Africa; and will campaign in Group C alongside 2011 winners Tunisia, Niger and Guinea, with matches to be played at the Stade Regional Nyamirambo, Kigali.
By Olisemeka Obeche