Rohr: Uzoho Did Well On His Full Debut, We Won Without Our Captain Mikel

Speaking to reporters post-match after Nigeria's 1-0 win over Poland, manager Gernot Rohr has said that the match was not a 'friendly game' as both teams wanted to win, and pointed out there were several tackles flying in in the course of the game.

The German was delighted that the Super Eagles were able to win for the first time without Mikel Obi in the squad, and has praised goalkeeper Francis Uzoho for keeping another clean-sheet on his full debut.

''We were lucky to have won this game against a very solid Polish side. Poland created at least four good chances and we scored a penalty,'' said Gernot Rohr.

''The opponents were better in the air. But our young goalkeeper, who first played for the Nigeria national team from the beginning, did well. We won the match without our captain - Mikel John Obi. Previously, we lost against South Africa without him.

''After beating Poland, the sixth team in the FIFA ranking, I warn against too much optimism. we will not be the favorite of the World Cup, even the advancing to the knockout phase is uncertain.''

Rohr added : ''We will remain a humble team. In today's game there were injuries to two players - it was not a "friendly game'', no one wanted to let anyone go, both teams wanted to win, hence many fouls.

''We can learn from the European teams on the pitch, watch positions, discipline and organization. We must also remember that at the World Cup we will be one of the youngest teams.''

Friday's encounter took a surprise turn when Nigeria silenced the home fans after a spot kick was awarded by the referee in the 61st minute when Moses was hauled down in the box, the Chelsea star dusted himself to net from the penalty spot.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel