Monday, 9 October 2017

With Russia sure, work begins for the Super Eagles.


After the previous qualifiers against Cameroun in Uyo and Yaounde, every enthusiast of the game in Nigeria expected an easier game against Chipolopolo in Uyo. The Super Eagles so out classed the Indomitable Lions that the games were walks in the park. On that note, an easier game was anticipated against the Zambians in Uyo. Nigerians were in for a shocker.



The game started on a very sluggish note. The Eagles tried stringing passes together and take control but the Zambians seemed ready. Their counter attack game was top notch. On one occasion, the central defensive pair of Leon Balogun and William Troost Ekong were caught flat footed and the Zambians scored. The goal however, was to be called offside. A very debatable call.

There seemed to be conflict of duties between Onazi and Ndidi. With the latter finding more comfort in the holding role, the former was all over the place. Gernot Rohr need to decide whom to play. Conflicting duties won't help the team. One person should sit while another midfielder run the show in front of him; a role Mikel can play effectively.
Ezenwa in goal need a just a little confidence. Nigerians have more confidence in him than they do Daniel Akpeyi owing to the calamitous game he had against South Africa. Left full back position need to be sorted too. If possible, two or three Nigerian League players need to be drafted into the team to push for places. Enyimba's Chima Akas can give Echiejile a run for his shirt. Akwa United's Ifeanyi Ifeanyi and Rabiu Mohammed of Kano Pillars should be fighting for places too.

The Super Eagles team is nowhere near ready for the World Cup. A lot of work has to be put into the team. It shouldn't be business as usual. The best legs should go to Russia. This is no time to toy with one sure thing that bring Nigerians together.

Follow Ikenna on Twitter @ikenna005
Photo credit: premiumtimesng.com

4 comments:

  1. "Tbis is no time to toy with one sure thing that bring Nigerians together".- apt! Fewer truths than this. Well done man

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  2. Very insightful piece, I hope the powers that be heed this and employ all resources available in order to put together a team to contend with. Go Eagles!!!

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