Super Eagles can thank Bafana for World Cup wake up
By Colin Udoh, KweséESPN


It is not very often in football that silver linings can be gleaned from a loss, especially not in Nigeria. And very particularly, not when it is a home loss to unfancied opposition.

The defeat in June to South Africa, to whom the Super Eagles had never lost before, still leaves a bad taste in the mouth of many a football fan and official, but there is one consensus: The loss helped reboot the Super Eagles' sluggish CPU.

Up until that game, coach Gernot Rohr's policy was unapologetically skewed in favour of youth. The German looked determined to lower the average age of his squad to the early 20s, with only the barest sprinkling of experience.

Fate then played him an unexpectedly poor hand. The quartet of players who made up the experienced core of his team, led by captain John Mikel Obi, pulled up injured just before the game in June.

Joining Mikel were goalkeeper Carl Ikeme, defender Leon Balogun, and forward Victor Moses. In one stroke, Rohr's team had its spine traumatically ripped away. Rather than look to other experienced players, Rohr turned to untested rookies, some of whom had never previously played international football.

It proved disastrous. South Africa won 2-0. In truth, the scoreline flattered Nigeria. It should have been more. The inquest was immediate, and it went all the way to Nigeria's cabinet minister, who summoned both coach and federation.

What followed was a recall of experienced internationals, helped by returns from injury, as the Super Eagles promptly despatched Cameroon 4-0 in their very next game, in September.

Team official Patrick Pascal, himself a former Eagle, says the Bafana Bafana loss was a blessing in disguise.

"If we had not lost that game, we may not have made the changes that we needed and we could have lost against Cameroon," he told KweseESPN.

He is not alone. It is a sentiment shared by many in the country's football. Even Rohr himself has learnt the painful lessons of that defeat, as he prepares to lead his wards out against Zambia in their World Cup qualifier in Uyo on Saturday.

"Even though it is at home, it is not very easy sometimes," Rohr told KweseESPN.

"We saw against South Africa that anything can happen. But now, I have a team with experience and youthfulness. So, this is a good cocktail and I think we are ready for this game."


While Nigeria are one win away from becoming the first African country to qualify for the World Cup in Russia, Rohr is under no illusions about the task ahead.

"Zambia has a very good team, better perhaps than Cameroon, and the match will be difficult, so we must be ready," he said.

"We have a big fight to do because this new Zambia team is very young, they don't have anything to lose. They will come here to win also so we must be very strong to win this game."

The Super Eagles won the earlier WCQ fixture against Zambia 2-1 at Ndola last October, but Rohr says his players cannot take any chances.

At a team meeting on Wednesday, the coach stressed the importance of staying focused, of winning their individual duels against the Zambians, and taking whatever chances present themselves.

Source: http://kwese.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/20920674/super-eagles-thank-bafana-world-cup-wake-up?device=featurephone

Nigeria's five most memorable World Cup qualifiers
By Colin Udoh, KweséESPN



On Saturday, Nigeria's Super Eagles host Zambia in Uyo knowing that a win would send them to their sixth World Cup.
The Super Eagles have had some topsy-turvy qualifying games in the past, some of which have not exactly had happy endings.
In this feature, Colin Udoh remembers five of the Super Eagles' most memorable World Cup qualifiers.




1989: Cameroon 1-0 Nigeria

This was one of the most painful failures for the then-Green Eagles.

Fresh off reaching the final of the 1990 Africa Cup of Nations, Clemens Westerhof's team looked good for qualification after leading for most of the qualifying series.

Having been neck and neck and equal on points with the Indomitable Lions for the preceding two rounds, the duo were both on seven points when they met in Yaounde, with Nigeria needing just a draw to qualify.

When Henry Nwosu's perfect header sailed into the net, they thought they were on their way to Italia 90. However, their joy was shortlived as Tunisian referee Neji Jouini inexplicably chalked off the goal, despite bemusement on both sides.

Francois Oman-Biyik's goal ultimately proved to be the decider, with Cameroon claiming the two points to seal qualification.




1993: Algeria 1-1 Nigeria

Drawn with Algeria and Ivory Coast in the final round of qualifying, which featured three groups of three teams, Nigeria were aiming to reach their first World Cup.

Earlier in the campaign, they missed out on victory in Abidjan when Samson Siasia went for glory - rather than passing to an unmarked Rashidi Yekini - and duly missed, before being axed from the squad after Nigeria were defeated 2-1.

They subsequently won the reverse fixture in Lagos, but their lapse in Ivory Coast meant that they needed at least a draw in Algeria to progress.
Having been advised that the Algerians loved flowers, the entire Nigeria starting eleven, led by captain Stephen Keshi, lugged giant bouquets as they lined out for the pre-match formalities and presented them to their hosts.

It looked to have worked when Finidi George gave the Nigerians the lead on 20 minutes.
However, that was as far as it went, as the Algerians came back with a vengeance in the second half, peppering the Nigerians, who retreated into a desperate rearguard action.
Abdelhafid Tasfaout finally found a breakthrough on 66 minutes, and the Algerians almost carved out a late win, hitting the post late in the game.

However, Nigeria held out for one of the most nervy and most important results in their football history.




1998: Burkina Faso 1-2 Nigeria

Guinea were the other team in contention for the World Cup spot with Nigeria, and led the opening two rounds by two points over the Super Eagles.

Things turned on matchday three when Daniel Amokachi's quickfire brace -- on 66 and 67 minutes -- gave the Eagles a 2-1 win, although Titi Camara pulled one back to sour the victory.

Sat atop of the table by the slender margin of one point, Nigeria -- fresh off winning Olympic gold -- travelled to Burkina Faso and struggled on a bumpy pitch that eventually proved their redemption.

Mutiu Adepoju headed the Eagles in front before Emmanuel Amuneke's speculative daisy cutter from distance bobbled past the flailing foot of the Burkinabe goalie for a second.

Mamadou Zongo's late consolation was not enough to deny Nigeria three big points, while Guinea suffered a shock 1-0 defeat in Nairobi.

Nigeria had turned a two-point deficit to a four-point advantage, and by the time they won their next game at home to Kenya, they were out of reach and qualified for the World Cup with one game -- away to Guinea -- to spare.




2005: Nigeria 1-1 Angola

This was the qualifying programme that introduced Nigerian football fans -- very painfully -- to the tie-breaking concept of the head-to-head rule.

In one of CAF's more harebrained qualification models, 30 teams were split into five groups of six teams each. Winners qualified for the World Cup, while the top three qualified for the 2006 Nations Cup.

The decisive game for both Nigeria and Angola was in the scorching heat of Kano, where Paulo Figueiredo's freekick on the hour cancelled out Jay-Jay Okocha's 15th-minute opener to give Angola an unlikely point.

On the final day of qualification, the Super Eagles needed to win at Zimbabwe and hope Malawi did them a favour by getting a result at home to the Angolans.

Nigeria ran out 5-1 winners after Obafemi Martins bagged a brace, and Ayila Yussuf, Nwankwo Kanu and Osaze Odemwingie added to the score before Benjani Mwaruwari scored a consolation goal for Zimbabwe.

It was all going well, before a late, late Fabrice Akwa goal in Kigali rendered all of that academic.

Angola qualified on the head-to-head ruling despite trailing the Eagles by a whopping eight goals.



2009: Kenya 2-3 Nigeria

Tunisia had led the final round of qualifying from the opening matchday, keeping a two-point gap over Nigeria until the final day, when both sides had difficult away games to negotiate.

The math was simple; Nigeria needed to win at Kenya, and hope Mozambique did them a favour by beating the North Africans.
Striker Dennis Oliech did not read that script, and put the Harambee Stars in front within 15 minutes.
Apoplectic Nigeria hearts were stilled when two quick goals in a four-minute spell by Obafemi Martins and Yakubu Ayegbeni put Nigeria in front.
Allan Wanga threatened a collective coronary with a 77th-minute goal, before Martins struck with nine minutes to go to claim the win.
The Super Eagles were then greeted by good news from Maputo, as Mozambique's Dario had scored an 83rd-minute winner to hand Nigeria a come-from-behind World Cup ticket.


Source: http://kwese.espn.com/football/blog-football-africa/story/3221461/nigerias-five-most-memorable-world-cup-qualifiers?device=featurephone

England U21 boss Aidy Boothroyd: We are fighting Nigeria for Tammy Abraham and Sheyi Ojo
AIDY BOOTHROYD admits he faces a fight to hang onto England young guns Tammy Abraham and Sheyi Ojo.
By Jason Mellor

Tammy Abraham is eligible to play for Nigeria, who are keen on persuading him

Chelsea striker Abraham recently had to publicly underline his commitment to the Three Lions after it was revealed he met the president of the Nigerian Football Federation, who is a friend of his father.

The three-time African Champions are keen to persuade the pair to switch allegiance, which remains possible due to their family heritage.

Both players can opt to represent the Super Eagles before they feature for England at senior level. Until then, Boothroyd expects the charm offensive towards the highly-rated Premier League duo to continue.

Liverpool winger Ojo is out for three months with a dislocated shoulder suffered while on loan at Fulham.

Abraham, who is spending the season at Swansea, hopes to lead the line as England Under-21s host Scotland in a Euro 2019 qualifier at Middlesbrough’s Riverside Stadium.

Boothroyd is confident the relationship he has built up with the players will help ensure they choose to remain with the country of their birth, and the manager said:

“It’s an interesting one with Tammy and I saw those reports.

“The good thing is we have a relationship and I can pick the phone up and say, ‘What’s going on mate? Do I have to get a Nigerian passport and come and be your coach so you can stay with us?’.

“Nigeria are trying to get as many players as they can and you can’t blame them as we have got some good players.”

Stamford Bridge product Abraham, 20, has scored three times in nine England Under-21 appearances, and Boothroyd added:

“Nigeria still might be trying (to persuade the two players).

“You can understand why although these are lads who have played for England who have an affinity with us and a relationship. When it happens with Sheyi I can pick the phone up, the same with Tammy.

“It’s hard, as I can’t guarantee they are going to play because the group is so good. Perhaps other countries will see that and get into them and promise them the world.”

England are joint top of group four with Ukraine after a 1-1 draw in the Netherlands and a 3-0 win over Latvia.

New York City midfielder Jack Harrison is set to figure, but the 20-year-old from Stoke-on-Trent could have to wait until Tuesday’s trip to Andorra to make his debut.


The former Manchester United trainee paid his own £1,200 air fare after missing his original flight due to being stuck in traffic on the way to JFK airport.

Boothroyd added: “He’s spent most of his time here asleep but that may be just a ploy to avoid my meetings.

“He’s trained well and fitted in with the group. I can’t say which game but I’m sure he’ll get a cap.

“It’s always an intriguing fixture against Scotland. Naturally, they will want to beat us and as a passionate Englishman I’m really looking forward to the match.”


Source: http://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/650087/England-Under-21-Aidy-Boothroyd-Tammy-Abraham-Sheyi-Ojo-Chelsea-Liverpool-Nigeria-World

Iwobi trusts Rohr to make best selection
By John Egbokhan


Alex Iwobi said Thursday that it was up to coach Gernot Rohr, to decide who starts for the Super Eagles when they clash with Zambia’s Chiopolpolo in the FIFA 2018 World Cup qualifiers on Saturday.

Iwobi missed the back-to-back tie against Cameroon and the games revealed that the Arsenal’s up and coming striker was not missed, however, Rohr said Iwobi’s inclusion into the team was an added option in the star studded Super Eagles strike force featuring Victor Moses, Odion Ighalo, Victor Moses and Kelechi Iheanacho all who scored in the games against Cameroon.

“We are looking for a good performance as a team. But it’s up to the coach to select the best players for the team…It is a team game.

“All I know is that if I am called upon to represent my country I will be ready and prepared,” said Iwobi yesterday in Uyo.

Source: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2017/10/iwobi-trusts-rohr-make-best-selection/

Similar Article to DailyStar UK's but I always love to read up John Percy write-ups of the UK Telegraph...


Tammy Abraham and Dominic Solanke among England youngsters Nigeria could poach for World Cup, says Aidy Boothroyd

Tammy Abraham and Dominic Solanke could have a big decision to make over their international futures CREDIT: REUTERS

By John Percy




The Football Association are facing a battle with Nigeria over the international future of some of England's best junior players, with the Super Eagles on the verge of World Cup qualification.

Aidy Boothroyd, the England under-21s head coach, has admitted there is a genuine fear that many of the FA's leading junior team youngsters could be poached by Nigeria before next summer’s tournament in Russia.

Chelsea’s Tammy Abraham, Liverpool’s Dominic Solanke and Sheyi Ojo, Everton’s Ademola Lookman and Tottenham’s Josh Onomah are all eligible to play for Nigeria despite representing England at various age groups.

Nigeria have already approached Abraham and Ojo over potentially switching allegiance, while Lookman was targeted before talks with the FA in which he agreed to commit his future to England. Abraham, on loan at Swansea, is also understood to have made clear he wants to represent England but Ojo’s future is uncertain.

Arsenal’s Alex Iwobi has already opted to play for Nigeria's senior team and qualification for the World Cup will be assured if they defeat Zambia at home on Saturday.

Boothroyd said: "Nigeria are trying to get as many players as they can and you can't blame them because we've got some good players.

"There was talk about Tammy, while Sheyi Ojo is another and they might still be trying [to make him represent Nigeria at senior level], you just don't know. It's a hard one because I can't guarantee they are going to play because the group is so good.

“Tammy didn't start the game before last and that's just one of those things. Perhaps other countries might see that and try and get into him, promise him the world and get him in the first-team before you know it.

"But these are lads that have played for England and have an affinity with us and a relationship. There is a pathway and I can always pick the phone up and speak to them.”



Dual-nationality is now a major issue for national associations, with England's pool of talent scouted by the other Home Nations as well as the origin countries of families who emigrated within the last generation.

Ojo is on loan at Fulham and will miss the Euro 2019 qualifiers against Scotland and Andorra after suffering a dislocated shoulder, but Abraham, Solanke and Lookman are certain to be key players for Boothroyd in this campaign.

The under-21s will face Scotland on Friday night, with Manchester City’s Patrick Roberts, 20, a surprise exclusion from Boothroyd’s squad.

While the call-up for New York City FC’s Jack Harrison has caught the eye , Roberts has been overlooked despite impressing over the past 18 months on loan at Celtic.


“I just felt Jack had more game time. I know Pat had played in the Champions League but these are the tough decisions you want as a manager,” said Boothroyd.

“This hasn't killed any chance of Pat coming in to the squad in the future. It's the same with Izzy Brown. I have got no doubt that at some point Pat will be involved. He has done well enough to get that opportunity. You never know when they are going to be needed.”

On the challenge posed by Scotland, who recorded an excellent 2-0 win over the Netherlands last month, Boothroyd said: “It's not a six-pointer but it is one of those games you are absolutely desperate to win. They will be the same.

“I lived up there for a year and I know how important it is for them to beat the English at anything. But we are a very proud nation and we know there is an expectation on us.”


Source: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/football/2017/10/05/tammy-abraham-dominic-solanke-among-england-youngsters-nigeria/

Rohr: Eagles to win for Ikeme

Carl Ikeme

Gernot Rohr has said the Super Eagles wish to again win for sick goalkeeper Carl Ikeme, just as they did so against Cameroon, while also saying they have to surprise “a totally different” Zambia on Saturday as they already know a lot about Nigeria.

Nigeria will be through to next year’s World Cup in Russia with a win over Zambia in Uyo on Saturday, while the Chipolopolo will have to beat their hosts to at least take the game to the final rounds of the qualifiers next month.

Rohr said the Eagles are driven to win for goalkeeper Ikeme, who was outstanding when both teams first clashed in Ndola a year ago, but he is now on sick bed after he was diagnosed with acute leukemia.

“The Eagles want to win again for Carl,” Rohr said.

“He’s suffering, that’s not good.

“We want to give him the chance to be in Russia.”

The Franco-German coach also said he expects to change a few things in his team on Saturday so as to surprise the Zambians, who he reckoned know a lot about the Eagles.

“They know us, so we have to change a few things, be more dangerous so as to surprise them,” he said.

“They have changed a lot with young players from their U20s, they are a different team from the one we beat in Ndola.

“They have to win to stand any chance, while a draw could even be enough for us, but we want to win this game.”

Source: https://www.vanguardngr.com/2017/10/rohr-eagles-win-ikeme/

Super Eagles, Nigeria Expects.....
SoccerTalk by Mumini Alao






I WASN’T going to write a preview of the Super Eagles World Cup qualifier against Zambia this weekend at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

My thinking was, what is there to analyse when everybody knew already what was going to happen.

Oh, who says he/she doesn’t know what is going to happen? You, dear reader? Com’on! Of course, you know what is going to happen. The Super Eagles are going to beat the Zambians and qualify for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Finals. THAT is what is going to happen, in sha Allah!

It’s a very long time that I have felt this bullish about our national football team. As recently as late August/early September this year when we faced Cameroun in that dramatic World Cup qualifying double-header, I wasn’t this confident about our team. In fact, I declared the Eagles as the underdogs against the Indomitable Lions only for them to stun everybody with a comprehensive home victory and an impressive away draw.

But the situation and the circumstances are different against Zambia. The Eagles cannot hide from the fact that they’re the overwhelming favourites this time around. We all EXPECT them to win!

That’s not saying the Zambians will be pushovers, however. Any African team that beats powerhouse Algeria home and away like the Zambians have done deserves respect. But, to be frank, the Eagles are a class above the East Africans.
Since coach Gernot Rohr took over, the Eagles have discovered a new spirit and new confidence. If we have great expectations of them now, it is because of the way they have played so far in this World Cup qualifying race.



However, one real danger that I fear is complacency. Quite often, the Eagles have pleasantly surprised us when they were written off and have disappointed when expectation was high.

There’s always a likelihood of a repeat but, thankfully, I can’t see any signs of that happening against Zambia. I have observed the team closely and read many interviews by Rohr and his players. The message I get is that they all seem very focused on the task at hand. They know that the Zambians are coming for a fight and they are ready for them.

A Tweet by left-back Elderson Ehiejile (@Elderson) in symptomatic: “Only one thing on my mind: #NGAZAM.” It was accompanied by a photograph of the player, looking serious and determined.

Another possible danger is what Nigerian Olympian athlete Enefiok Udo-Obong describes as the “psychological stress and pressure that all footballers and sportsmen feel when they are on the verge of accomplishment.”
Being just one win away from grabbing the ticket to the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the Eagles could suffer from this type of psychological pressure. But I expect them to overcome that with the experience of captain Mikel Obi, Victor Moses and Ogenyi Onazi who have all been to a World Cup before and know how to deal with such situations.

So, Nigeria ticks all the right boxes ahead of Zambia. History is on our side as we have recorded more wins against them including beating them 2-1 in Ndola in the first leg of this tie; we lead them by three points and a healthy goal difference in our World Cup qualifying group; we are playing at home; we have the better players who are hungry to secure the World Cup ticket; we have more experience at this level; and we have a coach, Gernot Rohr, who I consider to be our “star player” because of his tactical nous.

Nigeria has all the necessary ammunition to silence Zambia’s pre-match boasts on Saturday. My prayer is for mother luck to also be on our side.

See you in Russia 2018!

Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/world-cup-eagles-nigeria-expects/

How Mikel Reacted To Iwobi’s Desire For His Eagles Jersey Number 10 – I Will Soon Retire




Captain of the Super Eagles of Nigeria John Obi Mikel gave a cheeky response to a question directed at Alex Iwobi on if he is keen to inherit Mikel’s Super Eagles number ten jersey.

During the Super Eagles interactive session with the media, Iwobi was asked if he has the desire to emulate the shirt number made famous by his uncle Austin Okocha during his playing days with the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

” I don’t want to talk about this because as you can see, my captain is already slapping me”, Iwobi said and it sparked the hall into a round of laughter.

” In regards to the shirt, I’m not really fazed about the shirt. If I get number 10, I get it. All I know is I’m here to represent my country and I’m proud to wear the colours. I’m not really fazed about what shirt (number) I’m wearing and really my uncle (Okocha) does not pressure me. I mean, I focus on myself “. He said.


After Iwobi has given the above response, Mikel collected the microphone from the Arsenal forward and jokingly said to the man who scored one of the goals when Nigeria beat Zambia 2-1 in the reverse fixture of Saturday’s game in Ndola ” Don’t worry, I will soon retire for you”.


**Maxwell Pius


Source: http://owngoalnigeria.com/2017/10/06/how-mikel-reacted-to-iwobis-desire-for-his-eagles-jersey-number-10-i-will-soon-retire/

Akpeyi backs Nigeria to book WC ticket




Chippa United's Nigerian goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi is treating Saturday's clash with Zambia in Uyo like a World Cup final given his country only need a point to punch their ticket to Russia 2018.

The Super Eagles top Group B in qualifying with 10 points from four games - three points more than Chipolopolo, seven ahead of Cameroon, and nine clear of Algeria.

Akpeyi told Chippa's website:

“We have come this far and now with only a point to qualify we must give 100 percent. We must give our all and with the nation behind us, we can.

“Zambia will also fancy their chances and will throw everything to fulfil their dream of playing in the World Cup. I believe though in my teammates, I believe in the Super Eagles.

“We are not going to leave any stone unturned on Saturday. This game is as big as World Cup final to me and I am sure I speak for all my teammates and Nigerians in totality.”

Meanwhile, Akpeyi was thrilled to make his return from injury in the Chilli Boys' 1-1 draw with Golden Arrows in Durban last weekend.


“I am grateful to God Almighty for my quick recovery and I want to thank the Super Eagles medical team and our physiotherapists at Chippa United for a job well done. I recovered quicker than initially anticipated.

“I am feeling good since coming back to the team. I am focused and have challenged myself to do better than I did last season, and help the team. Football is about teamwork and all the guys are pulling their weight which augers well for the team.”

Source: http://www.kickoff.com/mobile/news/79519/chippa-uniteds-daniel-akpeyi-backs-nigeria-to-book-world-cup-ticket-with-victory-over-zambia

The Challenge Facing Kayode At Girona In La Liga

[img]https://i1.wp.com/www.completesportsnigeria.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/Olanrewaju-‘Larry’-Kayode.jpg[/img]


For the past few years of his professional career, Olanrewaju ‘Larry’ Kayode has enjoyed being an attacking protagonist during two seasons with Maccabi Netanya in Israel, followed by another two campaigns in the Austrian Bundesliga with Austria Wien.

Hard work, quality performances and powerful finishing the 2016/17 season as the leading top-flight scorer in Austria, were enough to encourage Manchester City to knock at his door.

Whether that move was one of long-term vision by the English club, or simply motivated by their recently established links with Spanish side Girona, remains to be seen.

24-year-old Kayode currently finds himself playing in La Liga rather than the Premier League, but with a genuine opportunity to follow in the footsteps of other leading Nigerian stars over the last three decades, there’s the chance to really make a name for himself in one of the top leagues in the world.

This is the first time the club has ever played in the Spanish top-flight since its foundation in 1930, so it’s both uncharted and exciting territory for their fans, even if it could prove to be a long and difficult season.

At odds of 5/2 and amongst the favourites for relegation in the La Liga betting , Girona have plenty to improve.

The same might be said for Kayode, who has yet to score for his new side, although in his defence, his participation in games has been very limited.

Featuring just once in the starting eleven and with six further appearances from the substitutes bench, by the international break at the start of October, a closer look at the numbers is more revealing; just 186 minutes spent on the pitch and most of those coming towards the end of games.


Adapting to a new league and culture may provide one reason for Kayode not yet becoming a regular starter, despite the excellent scoring credentials at previous clubs. However, he also has stiff competition amongst the forward options in the shape of Cristhian Stuani, who boasts a wealth of La Liga experience.

Additionally, the 30-year-old Uruguayan international already has three goals to his name so far this term.


Most of the substitute appearances made by Kayode have come when he’s directly replaced Stuani in attack, but the Nigerian is faring better in terms of minutes played than another African striker at Girona, 23-year-old Kenya international Michael Olunga, likewise a recent addition during the summer on loan from Guizhou Zhicheng of China.


Girona boss Pablo Machin also tends to favour single striker formations. Interestingly, the only starting eleven appearance Kayode made was in the 0-0 draw away at Leganes , starting alongside Stuani to form an attacking duo and arguably performing better than the Uruguayan, yet sacrificed in the second half when Machin reverted to playing with a single striker.

After making his full international debut with Nigeria in the 1-1 friendly draw against Senegal last March, followed by another outing in the 3-0 win against Togo in June, Kayode will undoubtedly be keen to get more La Liga minutes if he’s to impress Super Eagles boss, Gernot Rohr.

This season is looking as though it will be the most difficult yet of his career, but with patience and perseverance, the talented striker will hopefully rise to the challenge over the course of the campaign in Spain and be rewarded with the minutes he deserves.

Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/the-challenge-facing-kayode-at-girona-in-la-liga/

Pinnick Promises More Deals As NFF Sign Three-Year Agreement With TGI Group
By Nurudeen Obalola in Uyo




The Nigeria Football Federation on Friday signed a partnership and sponsorship agreement with the agricultural processing conglomerate Tropical General Investment Group here in Uyo on Friday as the Super Eagles prepared to face Zambia in a World Cup qualifier, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.

TGI Executive Director Onyekachi Onubogu signed the three-year agreement on behalf of TGI, while President Amaju Pinnick, Vice-Presidents Seyi Akinwunmi and Shebi D ikko, as well as League Management Company Chief Executive Officer Nduka Irabor, represented the NFF at the signing ceremony held at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.

“TGI is a multi-national agricultural processing conglomerate and we have the largest rice mill in Nigeria, which is in Kebbi State,” Onubogu said at the press conference to announce the partnership.

“We have invested big in Nigeria and we want to show loyalty and passion for Nigeria by investing big in football. Football is very important in Nigeria and this is an opportunity to work with the NFF and help develop Nigerian football.

“We support the NFF’s desire to grow Nigerian football with private sector participation. We want to partner with the NFF in ensuring Nigerian football grows from strength to strength. We hope other corporates will partner with the NFF to grow Nigerian football.

“We at TGI are privileged and excited to be associated with the NFF and Nigerian football. We hope the Super Eagles will do very well at the World Cup, because I believe they will qualify tomorrow; it’s a formality.”

Pinnick praised TGI for identifying with Nigerian football, and promised that more of such partnership agreements would be signed.

“This is an important moment in Nigerian football’s drive for excellence,” the NFF President said. “We’re happy a huge conglomerate like TGI is partnering with us. They’ve seen our processes and our integrity and they’ve seen we want to be 100 per cent private- sector driven to refocus Nigerian football.

“Lots more partnerships like this one will come after the Super Eagles secure the World Cup ticket. TGI is a very thorough company and they have shown with this agreement that they find our processes satisfactory.

“More Nigerian companies should identify with us because football is huge in this country. I saw loads of buses heading to Uyo as I was driving down from Warri. All of them were coming for tomorrow’s match.”

Dikko explained that the partnership is for three years, with three of TGI’s numerous products being the ones involved for now.

He added that TGI’s Big Bull Rice is now the official rice of the Super Eagles. TGI also has the option of sponsoring the Super Falcons while they will sponsor the Super Eagles man of the match in subsequent matches.
Dikko however did not disclose the monetary value of the deal, promising to provide details later.
Nigeria host Zambia in a key World Cup qualifier here in Uyo on Saturday with a win guaranteeing passage for the Super Eagles.

Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/pinnick-nff-sign-year-agreement-tgi/

Opponents Watch

Living Inside Zambia Coach Nyirenda’s Head: How The Chipolopolos Are Likely To Play Against Nigeria On Saturday
From Kayode Ogundare, who was in Accra




One (dis)advantage of going undercover for any assignment is the likelihood of you falling in love with your quarry.



I must admit I didn’t think much about Zambia coach Wedson Nyirenda until the last few days when I got the brief that I was going to be covering the Chipolopolos’ preparations at their Accra, Ghana training camp.


And, after watching him work at close quarters with his players in four training sessions at the Marcel Dassailly-owned Lizzy Training Complex , I want to pretend that I know enough of how his mind is working ahead of the all-important World Cup qualifier against Nigeria on Saturday at the magnificent Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

For starters, Zambia’s preparations have been bogged down by
injuries and withdrawals , and the possibility of captain and first-choice goalkeeper Kennedy Mweene not been fully fit for the game .

So, acting on this premise, I won’t be surprised if stand-in goalkeeper Toaster Nzabata gets the nod if Mweene fails to make the team.

I don’t know why but I think Nyirenda is working on the assumption that the soft underbelly of the Nigerian team is in their defence, especially the full-backs, and he’s working hard to exploit that frailty. All through the training sessions, assistant coach Aggrey Chiyanji was constantly in charge of the strikers and their routine comprised mainly of trying to break down the full-backs with Fashion Sakala and Alex N’gonga doing quick runs to the right and left while relying on thorough balls from the midfield anchor which would likely be Enoch Mwepu or Chisamba Lungu or even both of them depending on what formation the coach decides on.


In the middle of the park, I expect the experienced Konduani Mtonga and Kabaso Mulenga to support Mwepu and Lungu in a four-man midfield but, should Nyirenda chose a more offensive formation, Mtonga gets my vote to play with Mwepu and Lungu in midfield in a 4-3-3 formation.

A 4-3-3 formation will mean a mobile four-man defence and I will vote Simon Silwimba, Fackson Kapumbu, Ziyo Tembo and the imposing Stoppila Sunzu. If for nothing else, this quartet has played together in the back-to-back victories over Algeria and that familiarity will help understanding among them.


Now, stretching it further, an adventurous Nyirenda knows he cannot afford to sit back and allow the Super Eagles to come at his team so he’s condemned to attack and a three-man attack looks very attractive.

Sakala, N’Gonga and Patson Daka(if he shakes off his knock) should get the starting nod against Nigeria and this, I must say, is a pretty strong side able to eke out a result.


Tactically, the strategy is to nullify Nigeria’s very offensive play by stifling the attacking intent of the Super Eagles. This is where Sunzu’s imposing build and the experience of Mtonga and Mulenga will come in handy.
Conventional wisdom will dictate that a coach be wary of a backlash against the venomous firepower of the Nigerian team, especially at the Uyo stadium where they have scored seven goals in two games in World Cup, but Nyirenda is anything but conventional.

If anything, he’s a maverick. I give him an A for boldness and guts. He’s doing what most African coaches rarely do: look so-called star players in the face and drop them.

If calling the bluff of players like Fwayo Tembo was not enough, dropping Rainford Kalaba took some guts. I thought he was and still is a decent player. Besides, he’s captained the team. Who drops captains?

Nyirenda’s quiet revolution will yield fruit for Zambia in time provided he stays on track and the Football Association allow him to continue in the job.

However, meeting Nigeria at this stage, with a World Cup ticket at stake, is a bridge too far. We may underrate our own team, and I’m not saying this lightly, but the Super Eagles is one of, if not, Africa’s most attack-minded team. There are just too many offensive pressure points in the team such that you can’t plug all at once.


Zambia’s time will come, maybe in 2022 because the current squad, made up of very young players is too talented not to play at the highest level.

Now time to look into my crystal ball and hazard a guess as to what Zambia’s probable starting line-up would be on Saturday.


My guess is as follows: Mweene; Silwimba, Kapumbu, Sunzu,Tembo; Mtonga, Mulenga, Lungu, Mwepu; Daka, Shonga


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/living-inside-zambia-coach-nyirendas-head-chipolopolos-likely-play-nigeria-saturday/

NFF Sign Partnership Deal With Payporte
By Johnny Edward in Uyo




The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) on Thursday signed a three-year deal with the country’s largest e-commerce company, Payporte, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.

The deal was announced in a media briefing here in Uyo with the top officials of the NFF led by the President Amaju Pinnick.

The deal which is basically aimed to help develop youth football through the NFF will also see the Payporte become the official and exclusive outlet for the sale of authentic national teams jerseys and mechandise available to their numerous fans.

The Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Payporte, Eyo Bassey, said:
“The partnership with the Nigeria Football Federation is to grow youth in the country and also ensure that the Super Eagles’ authentic mechandise are available to fans home and abroad.”

The first Vice-President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Seyi Akinwunmi, said the deal will benefit Nigerian football followers.


Source: https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/nff-sign-partnership-deal-payporte/

Hahahahahahahahaha......


And so it happened.... that on the 7th day of the year 2017, Alex Iwobi of Arsenal FC secured Nigeria the 2018 World cup ticket within 7 mins of being introduced.


Lot to say... will be back for my match players review....

I just knew this day would be the day. I gave it as a kind of prophecy aeons ago when this WC qualifying race began after the group of death was confirmed.... that Nigeria's new Golden Generation's emergence will begin firsthand at Russia 2018...

That has come to pass. Now let the Rise of a new Nigerian Golden age begin......

See you soon...

Alex Iwobi fires Nigeria to the World Cup



Substitute Alex Iwobi propelled Nigeria to the 2018 World Cup with a late strike that earned the Super Eagles a 1-0 victory over Zambia.
Iwobi latched onto a cutback just inside the box after good interplay between Victor Moses and Shehu Abdullahi, before drilling home with unerring accuracy in the 74th minute.

The victory means the Super Eagles became the first African country to qualify for the World Cup, but they were made to work for every second of the 90 minutes by a brave and fearless Chipolopolo, who remained in the hunt for a ticket to Russia until the final whistle.

The Zambians frustrated Nigeria in a feisty first half where tackles flew and both sides struggled to create anything more than half chances.

Although the Super Eagles marginally edged the few
opportunities created in the first half, it was Zambia who hit the post.

With Ogenyi Onazi off injured, Gernot Rohr threw in Mikel Agu, but the gulf in class between the duo was immediately apparent.

Without Onazi's snappy tackling, Nigeria's control of the midfield loosened, leaving Zambia room to roam free as Agu consistently lost tackles, then resorted to fouling and picked up a yellow card within five minutes of coming on.

It was from one such missed tackle that the chance came, but Ikechukwu Ezenwa was alert to palm it onto the post.

Nigeria also created opportunities of their own; the impressive Abdullahi Shehu bounded down the right channel almost straight from kickoff to deliver a low cross which Kennedy Mweene did well to get his body behind, but it took another 16 minutes before Nigeria's probing created another opening.

Following an interception and a quick break, John Obi Mikel played a smart give and go with Moses Simon, who raced down right channel to deliver another low cross for Odion Ighalo
However, on this occasion, there was too much weight on the ball and the forward could not reach it on time as it dribbled across the face of goal.

The chances were even fewer in the second half as Nigeria looked to be tiring, especially after the forced substitution of Onazi.

With 25 minutes to play, Gernot Rohr threw on Arsenal man Iwobi for Simon, and his impact was almost immediate.

First, he charged forward on a breakaway and played in Victor Moses, but the Chelsea man could not get the ball to sit and the chance was cleared.

But Iwobi was not to be denied, and when the impressive duo of Moses and Abdullahi combined to set him up on the edge of the area, he was clinical, just like in the first game between the two teams back in October.

The win takes Nigeria up to 13 points, six ahead of Zambia, and with one match to play, they can begin to look forward to their sixth appearance at the grandest stage of all.

Source: http://kwese.espn.com/football/report?gameId=464061&device=featurephone

The Glory days of Nigeria's Super Eagles have returned for good.... from Russia 2018 onwards, the evolution of this Fine and really talented Nigerian team enters a new and much higher phase.

We came up against a very interesting and very talented Zambian side no doubt. Their rise is also imminent and they will be among the few African Sides that will seek to strongly challenge Our Nigerian new Golden Generation in years to come. Kudos to Wedson Nyirenda and his boys... it takes guts to drop the likes of Rainford Kalaba, Collins Mbesuma, and even Fwayo Tembo and still forge a crack team made up of Zambia's new Rising Glory boys from the Zambian U-20 class of 2017 led by Fashion Sakala, Enoch "Computer" Mwepu (really impressed by that lad), And Patson Daka who was missing in action.

The Zambian team are on the verge of a revolution themselves but the truth is their rise coincides with an era that will see Nigeria's Super Eagles return to the very pinnacle/top of the African Game as True Lords and Giants indeed of African Football with a view to making Solid and Greater impacts on the world scene hopefully miles better than previous African Great sides like the 1980-82 Algerian Team, 1984-1990 Camerounian Team, 2000-2004 Camerounian Team, The 2001-2002 Senegalese Team, The 2006-2010 Egyptian Team and Finally the greatest and most talented of them all, The 1990-2000s Era of the Nigerian Team (achieved the highest ever rating for an African side in the Fifa World rankings back in 1994-95).



October 7 marks the day This new Nigerian Golden Era begins officially... we sealed the new era's first Achievement... Qualification for Russia 2018.

It can only get better from then on.... I for see an explosion of dominance by this team in this new era. The dawn is done.... now for Sunlight to take its course to the fullest....


Now let us look at The players who made this moment possible.... The Glory Boys/Men.

#NGAZAM Players Review.

Ikechukwu Ezenwa

First of all, I was so happy when I learnt Ezenwa will start this game. I knew Rohr will surprise the Experience crew. Lol... but I was not 100% certain myself.

The way the game went, I am not certain Akpeyi would have stayed composed. Ezenwa's composure and Confidence is still a big key that no good coach will ignore. Even his beautiful tactical awareness that made him come out for that ball in the second half which he cleared solidly brought glimpses of what a sweeper-keeper does.... Spotting danger as the last man.

Ezenwa didn't really have much to do in terms of saves apart from that Beautiful bumpy strike from Zambia's no.9, Ngonga which he (Ezenwa) saved rather awkwardly. He got a vital touch to the ball before it scratched the post slightly before going out for a corner.

Ezenwa was alert all game and he must receive credits for keeping his cool all through even when the tension rose to above 212 degrees Fahrenheit... lol

Well done Super Eagle Ezenwa... I predict he will make the Russia 2018 party. He is ahead of Akpeyi right now in the Super Eagles Goalkeeping pecking order.

TheSuperNerd:
Alex Iwobi fires Nigeria to the World Cup



Substitute Alex Iwobi propelled Nigeria to the 2018 World Cup with a late strike that earned the Super Eagles a 1-0 victory over Zambia.
Iwobi latched onto a cutback just inside the box after good interplay between Victor Moses and Shehu Abdullahi, before drilling home with unerring accuracy in the 74th minute.

The victory means the Super Eagles became the first African country to qualify for the World Cup, but they were made to work for every second of the 90 minutes by a brave and fearless Chipolopolo, who remained in the hunt for a ticket to Russia until the final whistle.

The Zambians frustrated Nigeria in a feisty first half where tackles flew and both sides struggled to create anything more than half chances.

Although the Super Eagles marginally edged the few
opportunities created in the first half, it was Zambia who hit the post.

With Ogenyi Onazi off injured, Gernot Rohr threw in Mikel Agu, but the gulf in class between the duo was immediately apparent.

Without Onazi's snappy tackling, Nigeria's control of the midfield loosened, leaving Zambia room to roam free as Agu consistently lost tackles, then resorted to fouling and picked up a yellow card within five minutes of coming on.

It was from one such missed tackle that the chance came, but Ikechukwu Ezenwa was alert to palm it onto the post.

Nigeria also created opportunities of their own; the impressive Abdullahi Shehu bounded down the right channel almost straight from kickoff to deliver a low cross which Kennedy Mweene did well to get his body behind, but it took another 16 minutes before Nigeria's probing created another opening.

Following an interception and a quick break, John Obi Mikel played a smart give and go with Moses Simon, who raced down right channel to deliver another low cross for Odion Ighalo
However, on this occasion, there was too much weight on the ball and the forward could not reach it on time as it dribbled across the face of goal.

The chances were even fewer in the second half as Nigeria looked to be tiring, especially after the forced substitution of Onazi.

With 25 minutes to play, Gernot Rohr threw on Arsenal man Iwobi for Simon, and his impact was almost immediate.

First, he charged forward on a breakaway and played in Victor Moses, but the Chelsea man could not get the ball to sit and the chance was cleared.

But Iwobi was not to be denied, and when the impressive duo of Moses and Abdullahi combined to set him up on the edge of the area, he was clinical, just like in the first game between the two teams back in October.

The win takes Nigeria up to 13 points, six ahead of Zambia, and with one match to play, they can begin to look forward to their sixth appearance at the grandest stage of all.

Source: http://kwese.espn.com/football/report?gameId=464061&device=featurephone

There's just one thing that caught my attention in this piece. People have been calling for the head of Odion but the weight of the pass was too much, there was little odion could do. The pass iwobi scored with isn't the same as Simon's cross, with a little less pace, probably Idiom could have done better.

#NGAZAM Players Review


Elderson Echiejile


Echiejile put in 80mins of hardwork (by his standards), blood and sweat before being replaced by Ola Aina due to a knock he received.
Wedson Nyirenda definitely had Echiejile in mind when he made so much noise about how Zambia could shock Nigeria in Uyo. Echiejile struggled to cope with the pacy Zambian Wingers be it Sakala or Lungu/Mulenga... Echiejile was outpaced most times but made up partially for it with his experience and tried positioning himself better defensively to avoid further onslaught which saw him register 3 successful tackles out of five attempted. And he also yielded Five interceptions.


He offered almost nothing going forward though and his exit saw Ola Aina bring a bit of more urgency to that role although it was late in the game already.

All the same, Echiejile remains the Eagles' no 1 choice at LB but with Aina we have a good option there also (even though Aina is also a great cover at RB). I suggest we target another cool upgrade on Echiejile like a Torunarigha Jordan of Hertha BSC.

Well done in all Super Eagle Echiejile.....

#NGAZAM Players Review

William Troost Ekong

King Kong was a beast aerially winning a successful 3-4 aerial duels. He also battled hard against the likes of Mwepu and Zambia's no.9 Ngonga and did seem to struggle at times but he rallied back strongly to help The Super Eagles keep a clean sheet.

The pace and power of Ngonga which caused some trouble for Balogun also was a worry for Ekong but he and Balogun handled it like True Warriors as their names portray.

Well done Super Eagle William "King Kong".....

#NGAZAM Players Review

Leon Balogun

This guy had a tale of Two halves. In the first half, he was shoved aside and pushed to the wall by the raw Power and pace of the Zambian forwards led by Ngonga and Sakala ably supported by Mwepu from deep, Mulenga and Lungu.

Balogun struggled to assert his super authority in the first half and some part of it was due to Onazi's unexpected withdrawal from the game as early as the 30th min. Also, Echiejile's mixed LB display ensured Balogun had to work his socks off and that made him look kinda average at times (although yes, Balogun made few mistakes of his own too) but he rallied back to finish strongly.

Even towards the first half's end, he failed to shield the ball effectively from Ngonga who got behind Balogun beating him for pace and power only for his effort to fly over Ezenwa and over the bar for a chance gone and goalkick to Nigeria.

In the second half... we saw a more determined Balogun and his bounce back from that partly mixed first half (half solid, half shaky) was beautiful to see... he battled and won every aerial duel (although a few of his noddings were also suspect and not strong enough) and achieved a game high 5 aerial duels won (only Zambia's Ziya Tembo had more with 6, Mwepu computer also had five like Balogun).


Also Balogun made one key solid block in the second half which summed up his commanding performance in that half that decided the game.

Seeing the manner in which he cried so passionately on Mikel's shoulders at the blast of the final whistle only showed us how committed and how much Love he has for the Green and white... But also his tears of Joy showed us the feelings of having a dream come true when about Three years ago, such a dream was almost impossible for him as a player.


Well done Super Eagle Balogun... Balogun means Warrior and indeed that is who you are... The Warrior-Leader of the Super Eagles Backline... Super Eagles 21st Century Dean of Defence...

#NGAZAM Players Review

Shehu Abdullahi

Question: Can anything good and special actually come out of Cyprus?

Answer: Looking at Shehu against Zambia and all through his recent performances for the Super Eagles against Top quality African Oppositions... I dare say... "Hell yeah! Something not just good but great can actually emerge out of Cyprus...."


Shehu was my MOTM today. Yes he got a yellow for a heavy challenge (which happened too quickly as he is a neat player not dirty), but his quality and contributions both defensively and offensively were A Joy to watch. His assist for Alexander "The Great" Iwobi was simply sublime as he had the presence of mind to square the ball away from the six yard zone and into Iwobi's path. Awesome awareness.

Shehu created two chances when he ventured offensively and one of it resulted in an assist.

He made Ekong's job as the right-sided CB easier as he was very disciplined in knowing when to venture forward and when to stay put in defence.

He was just unplayable against Zambia and surely has further cemented his place as the Super Eagles no.1 RB. And with Ola Aina in the picture, we got fine cover for both the RB and LB roles.

Well done Super Eagle Shehu.... your star continues to rise since your entrance at the 2013 Fifa U-20 World cup for The Flying Eagles under John Obuh.

#NGAZAM Players Review

Ogenyi Eddy Onazi

I believe his vital importance to the team's steel in Midfield was seen again even in his absence as it was against France in Brazil 2014.

Onazi lasted only 30mins but his presence kept things ticking for the Super Eagles' midfield with his workaholic and tireless runnings, markings and few forays upfront which almost set up Ighalo once. Sadly he was not to continue any further as injury stopped him and Mikel Agu had to take his place.

Surely he is Russia bound and showed again why he is indeed Super Eagles Vice Captain.


Well done Super Eagle Onazi

TheSuperNerd:
#NGAZAM Players Review

Ogenyi Eddy Onazi

I believe his vital importance to the team's steel in Midfield was seen again even in his absence as it was against France in Brazil 2014.

Onazi lasted only 30mins but his presence kept things ticking for the Super Eagles' midfield with his workaholic and tireless runnings, markings and few forays upfront which almost set up Ighalo once. Sadly he was not to continue any further as injury stopped him and Mikel Agu had to take his place.

Surely he is Russia bound and showed again why he is indeed Super Eagles Vice Captain.


Well done Super Eagle Onazi

Today I believe we all got to understand why Rohr has stuck with Eddie Ogenyi. Truly a super eagle.

#NGAZAM Players Review


Mikel Agu

This lad called Agu (Agu for Lion... lol). He came on for Onazi in a move to continue Onazi's good work in Midfield and I must say that although I was not impressed with his passing and distribution, I was very impressed with his ball-winning, Marking abilities and positional discipline. Even made a strong run back to intercept and block a Zambian attack towards the latter parts of the second half. He covered gaps and won balls but only his ball retention and passing let him down most times but I am beginning to understand why Rohr sticks with him. Agu is a fighter and ball winner in the midfield but I hope he adds some more to his game like passing and simple distribution too.....

His passing was most times a give away to the Zambians which put pressure on our defence but Ndidi also aided him to avert any real danger and Balogun too did okay to cover even though he too looked shaky mostly in the first half.

He made one key block from stats report and that is the moment I earlier referred to in this short write-up.

Well done Super Eagle Agu.....

#NGAZAM Players Review


Wilfred Ndidi

Played the whole 90mins except finishing extra time as he left on a stretcher and was a beast through out. Battled superbly with Mwepu and Mtonga in Midfield and was calm in possession and neat in marking and passing.

Ndidi had three shots in all and had a powerful header palmed away by the impressive Kennedy Mweene. That leap and header was world class but Mweene's save was equal in quality.

Ndidi also contributed a game high Five successful tackles out of Five attempted tackles. Echiejile was next with Three out of five... Zambia's best was Ziya Tembo with five successful tackles out of 6 tackles attempted.


In all, Great shift from Ndidi both offensively and defensively.

Well done Super Eagle Wilfred "The Octopus" Ndidi

#NGAZAM Players Review


John Mikel Obi

I could write an epistle on his performance today but I will just keep it simple with some stats and some words.

Mikel played all 90 plus extra time and he surely had to stay on the pitch till the end. He was at the heartbeat directly or indirectly of every move made offensively by the Super Eagles and also in covering gaps in Midfield to help his more defensively minded Midfield lieutenants.

His beautiful maneuvering run in the first half where he skipped past two players and challenges which almost yielded a chance showed all again the class of the man and legend called John Mikel Obi.

His touches and vision were a class above all on the pitch until Alexander Iwobi entered and showed same class and authority on the ball which rivalled Mikel's kinda.

Mikel made a passing accuracy of 78% in the final third of the pitch and successfully completed two out of two take-ons.

Watching how he patted Balogun gently as Balogun cried tears of Joy on his shoulders showed a leader who shared in the moments of achieving Glory teamwise and personal-wise with his comrades and friends-in-combat.


Well done Super Eagle Mikel Obi... Captain and leader of the team

#NGAZAM Players Review


Simon Moses

Simon Moses did good for the 66mins he featured but eventually tired out after a gruelling shift. He battled long and hard against Zambia's fullbacks and did penetrate a few times especially when he floated in a beautiful little cross from twh right which was a bit heavy touch-wise and was why Ighalo couldn't get a touch to it to finish the chance off.

In all, Simon was industrious and did great, creating a few chances and offering the team an extra outlet in attack. His defensive contributions were also very vital as he helped Shehu cover good grounds too. And when he did switch to the left for a little time, he also offered same cover for Echiejile.

He is fast evolving into a baller indeed... a player reborn with his neat passing and decision-making when out wide. He will only get better.

Well dome Super Eagle Simon Moses

#NGAZAM Players Review

Alexander Iwobi

"The Conqueror of Alexandria", Alexander "The Great".... He ended up being the difference based on the scoreline. He came off the bench for Simon and brought in his sleek and sexy style which confounded the Zambians.

He was extra neat in his passing and offered added creativity to the team with Mikel and Victor Moses still on. His Ability to see a pass where others see blockages is another quality that stands him out as one of the Super Eagles most intelligent players and schemers.

His positioning which worked for him in Ndola in Nigeria's 2-1 win came to the fore again today and he became again Zambia's Nemesis and Albatross.
Zambia will never forget Alex Iwobi. His only two international goals have come against the Zambians.... seems he love playing against them.

Well done Super Eagle Alex Iwobi..... shine on Great Lad... Scorer of the goal that sent The Super Eagles to Russia 2018....

#NGAZAM Players Review



Ola Aina


Came on in the 80th min and showed that he belonged in the gathering of the Eagles. It may have just lasted 10mims + but his willingness to get forward and create chances plus his defensive solidity in intercepting a cross attempted from the right by Ernest Mbewe (late entrant for Lungu) only gave us hints of what Aina is still gonna offer this team in the long run.

Aina is a lad who brings quality cover to both fullback roles (RB and LB) and he is two footed although more of right but very efficient with both feet hence his versatility and dynamic uniqueness as a well rounded fullback.

I know he will make the train to Russia. He is part of the team now and this game was his competitive Debut by the way.


Well done Super Eagle Aina.... welcome to the team

#NGAZAM Players Review


Odion Jude Ighalo

Odion gave a good shift and even though he couldn't find the back of the net, he did get into some good scoring positions thanks to the creativity of and changes created by Simon Moses, Victor Moses and even Onazi....

He was well man marked but also caaued somw worrying moments in that Zambian defence... his hold up plays were quite good today and his link-up plays were decent but maybe he could have done better with that chance created by Victor Moses.

A great Highlight of Ighalo in that first half though was the beautiful play and skill moves he made in the Zambian 18 which resulted in his fine cross for Simon Moses who attempted the acrobatic and ballooned over.

Ighalo is a class act and will lead the charge in Russia from the front. Although Iheanacho remains the far more clinical forward in the team, Ighalo bulldozing and dynamically menacing style is still key. But depending on opposition, Iheanacho will always be in the picture coz a chance like the one Ighalo missed from Simon Moses cross, would probably have been bundled in by Nacho or even The chance created by Victor Moses.

But fact is Ighalo is first choice and had proven he is indeed the team's no.9.

What a bench we have indeed in attack with Nacho, Nwakaeme (yet to prove himself in the team's colors but quality is there) and even an Onyekuru, Dessers or even Kayode still to come in and fight for a place.


Well done Super Eagle Ighalo

#NGAZAM Players Review


Victor Moses


Last but not least, and one of our finest performers today... "Victor The Mo"

He has grown into an unstoppable force in the Super Eagles team and a force of nature against Opponents. His influence is always vital and his impact is always match transforming.

He was involved directly in the move for Nigeria's only goal by intelligently releasing Shehu down the right from which Shehu squared immaculately, laying a beautiful chance on a platter for Iwobi who took it calmly with the experience of a master and bang!!!!! The Super Eagles were home and dry....

Victor Moses' importance cannot be overemphasized. He is a pillar of this team and a super livewire in the team's attack. A world class performer and a true Super Eagle.

Victor created a game high Five chances for his team mates and had the "assist-before-the-assist" hand in the winning goal... what we call "second assists".

Victor also had a game high passing Accuracy of 83% in the final third and made Five successful crosses out of 11 attempted. Immense contributions.... Victor is easily one of the Continent's finest players today.


Well done Super Eagle Victor Moses