Super Eagles' German coach Gernot Rohr finally entered the history books in Nigeria's 1-1 draw against Democratic Republic of Congo on Monday, May 28, allnigeriasoccer.com is reporting.
The former Bayern Munich defender became the first Nigeria coach to field four foreign-born defenders following the introduction of Ola Aina at half-time, as replacement for Monaco's Elderson Echiejile.
Nigeria began the second half against the Leopards with William Troost-Ekong and Leon Balogun, who were born in Netherlands and Germany, occupying the central defensive positions, Dutch-born Ebuehi at right-back and Londoner Aina playing at left-back.
This record for playing with four foreign-born defenders could have been set two months ago in the Super Eagles friendly with Serbia in London, only for Leon Balogun to withdraw from the starting line-up at the last minute, citing illness.
It is almost a foregone conclusion that the record will be equaled in Russia during the World Cup as Troost-Ekong, Balogun and Brian Idowu are Rohr's preferred options in central defense and left-back at the moment.
Amkar Perm star Idowu has a Nigerian passport but was born in Saint Petersburg, his mom is half-Russian, half-Nigerian from Imo State.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
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