Super Eagles With Moses, Iwobi, Ndidi, Iheanacho Can Make A Statement In Russia

“To be the best you must beat the best.” This mantra best describes the journey of the Nigerian national football team in the build to qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup that will be held in Russia.

It was not an easy ride on paper as what stood ahead was the brick wall of five time African champions Cameroon, powerhouses Algeria that was ripe with an abundance of attacking talent and unpredictable Zambia.

This was arguably the ‘group of death’ in the African qualifiers.

Bookmarkers expected a very closely fought duel with each team very much capable of punching its way to secure that sole berth.

However, it was that explosive and ruthless offensive precision by Nigeria that handed them solid wins over all comers.

The epitome of the Super Eagles’ prowess was in the penultimate qualifier against a well drilled and highly stubborn Zambia side.

The introduction of Arsenal’s Alex Iwobi, a speedster with the tactical vision and passion of his uncle who happens to be the legendary Jay Jay Okocha, changed the entire complexion of the match.

Iwobi’s crisp movement in the penalty box was topped by his first time shot that not only proved to be the winner but also saw his side qualify for the World Cup.

Now it is on to the big stage where African teams of the past have failed to win the most prestigious trophy in football. Since the turn of the 21st century, Senegal reached the last eight in 2002 while Ghana narrowly missed out on a semi-final berth in 2010 after an enthralling encounter with Uruguay.

In Russia, Nigeria is set to face the mighty force of Lionel Messi’s Argentina, dark horses Iceland and a Croatian side whose coach has raised the stakes by declaring that his side are superior to the Super Eagles.

It has been recently revealed that the Croats’ coaching department already have their first 11 to face Nigeria figured out.

Bookies have Nigeria placed at 150/1 to win the World Cup and 16/5 odds for a win against Croatia.

Analysis on Betbright information page and other relevant sources will show that indeed there has been a major gap in the competitive level of African teams at the World Cup.

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The current crop of Super Eagles’ players show great promise in terms of quality and experience which is ideal for a tourney of such a magnitude.

Under the stewardship of German Gernot Rohr, Nigeria has become a mighty force that carries the hopes of the continent. Rohr has been strategic in his recent team selection by mixing the perfect blend of youth and experience.

Victor Moses has been a revelation at Chelsea at right wing-back role. He was instrumental in his club’s renaissance as they turned last season around on-route to the English League title.

Other experienced players who could also make the cut to Russia include midfield enforcer John Mikel (captain), Odion Ighalo, Ogenyi Onazi, long serving left back Elderson Echiejile and the trick-happy Ahmed Musa.

Alongside Iwobi, other fresh faces that are still setting their stride in the Super Eagles setup are 21 year old striker Kelechi Ihenacho and fellow Leicester City teammate Wilfred Ndidi.

Key friendlies lined up for Super Eagles ahead of World Cup

As is the case in preparations for major tournaments, Nigeria is scheduled to take part in high level friendly matches prior playing their opener at the World Cup.

According to Sky Sports, Nigeria Football Federation Secretary General Mohammed Sanusi intimated that Nigeria would tackle the Three Lions of England.

“We plan to play a friendly against England in June before the World Cup,” Sanusi said.

Local based players will have a chance to stake their claim for a slot in the final squad when the Africa Nations Championship kicks off in January.

Also on the cards is a friendly match against Poland slated for March 23, 2018.

Igho Kingsley