Takeaways From Algeria-Nigeria W/Cup Qualifier
Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying game against Algeria may be a dead rubber encounter, but it did show us many things.
The Super Eagles played out a 1-1 draw against the Desert Warriors in Constantine, to finish their qualifying race to Russia undefeated.
What the game showed us
1. John Ogu, with that long range goal, may have cemented his place on the flight to Russia.
He might not be the Onazi we need as he made some ill-timed tackles, but he’s way better than Mikel Agu.
2. Nigeria needs a reliable goalie
Ezenwa might appear to be confident but he must up the ante in terms of his decision making.
One could say he’s match-rusty since the NPFL is on break but that doesn’t justify his poor handling of aerial balls.
Bringing Vincent Enyeama could cause friction in the team but if Ezenwa, Uzoho or any other goalie cannot cement the goalkeeping position, then, Enyeama’s return would be invaluable.
3. We need a creative distributor.
The team played on Friday with defence-minded men in the middle of the park – Etebo, Ogu and Ndidi.
Although Iwobi tried to drop deep, it was glaringly obvious Mikel was missed.
We couldn’t have a firm grip of the midfield to dictate the pace of the game as the Algerians showed much respect to the Eagles.
4. Iheanacho must rediscover self.
Although Kelechi Iheanacho could not find the target, he had a couple of shots on target. But with the abundance of attacking options in the Eagles, the Leicester City youngster must up his game to be in Vladimir Putin’s homeland.
5. African referees need to wake up.
I won’t say much about this.
From the penalty to issuing a yellow card to Yacine Brahimi, the Algerian captain for headbutting Shehu, it’s clear the referee needed to do better!
After World Cup Qualifier, Eagles Must Prepare For Russia
Thankfully enough, the team have over seven months to put their house in order before the competition begins.
They will play Argentina in a friendly on Tuesday, as part of the preparation.
