We must improve our defence – Gernot Rohr

The tactician has insisted on bettering the Super Eagles shaky backline and also reserved some praises for Carl Ikeme’s replacement

Gernot Rohr has said that Nigeria’s defence must improve despite their 3-1 victory over Algeria in the 2018 Africa World Cup Qualifying Group B match.

John Obi Mikel’s goal sandwiched by Victor Moses’ brace secured a much deserved three points for the Super Eagles with Nabil Bentaleb’s scorcher proving a mere consolation for Georges Leekens’ side.

The former Bordeaux boss said his side’s ‘only problems’ in the game surfaced in the second half when Riyad Mahrez and his fellow attackers started throwing tantrums at their defence.

“The only problems we had during the game were the chances Algeria were creating in the second half,” Rohr told media.

“It was tough stopping the Algerians but our defenders showed solidarity and we held on. It’s clear that we must improve our defence.

“We have tried three different players at right-back; they have done their best but we have to continue to find the ideal players for the defence.

“We will improve. I’m happy though that we’re strong offensively.”

Rohr also had good words for stand-in goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi who he claimed fought early nerves to have a good game.

“Daniel had a good game; you can’t blame him for the goal. He was nervous early on but he grew into the game and did well for us.”