“We have to be back stronger”- Umar targets redemption after World Cup disappointment

The three-time African champions suffered a painful heartbreak in March courtesy of Ghana, but they would look to bounce back against the Leone stars

Super Eagles striker Sadiq Umar wants to put behind the disappointment of not qualifying for the 2022 World Cup and bounce back with victories against Sierra Leone and Mauritius in the upcoming Nations Cup qualifiers.

The three-time African champions missed out on a spot in Qatar after a 1-1 draw in Abuja ensured that their weaker Ghanaian counterparts picked the World Cup ticket by the away goals rule.

Umar was a substitute in that game, but the time was too short for him to make an impact.

However, the Almeria man is looking to bounce back from the disappointment when the Super Eagles kick off their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers on the 9th of June against Sierra Leone.

“We are all getting ready for the game”, Umar told NFF TV.

“After the World Cup qualifiers, we told ourselves that we have to be back stronger and we have to show it.”

Umar also spoke about life under new boss Jose Peseiro, stating the team’s readiness to impress under the Portuguese tactician.

“I’ve had my first training with him. We did all the training with the ball, and we’re just trying to understand what he wants, and we all hope we can give him what he wants.” Umar said.