Dickson Etuhu starred on his return to international football as Nigeria were held by Botswana in a friendly in Benin City.
The Fulham midfielder was named man of the match as he ended his international exile following the sacking of previous coach Samson Siasia. There wasn’t a dream start for Siasia’s successor, Stephen Keshi, who captained his country during the 1994 World Cup, as some fine goalkeeping from teenager Kabelo Dambe foiled attempts from ke Uche, Joel Obi and Fegor Ogude.
Keshi was content with his side’s performance after the game:
We passed the ball well and the boys played a good game against a disciplined side. Not only did we have the possession but we created chances. It is strange to think we could have won today but we’ve learned a lot.
Next up for Nigeria is a friendly against Zambia in Kaduna on Tuesday as they try to bounce back from failing to qualify for next year’s Africa Cup of Nations.
