Main PageAlgeria 1 Vs 1 Nigeria: 5 things we learnt from Super Eagles draw
These are five things we learnt from Super Eagles' 1-1 draw away at Algeria.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria played out a 1-1 draw with Algeria on Friday, November 10 to round-up their 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
John Ogu opened the scoring for Nigeria in the 62nd minute with a fine shot from the edge of the 18-yard-box before Algeria equalised late-on.
These are five things we learnt from the game
1. Ezenwa can’t be Super Eagles first choice
This was Ikechukwu Ezenwa’s fourth appearance for the Super Eagles and it might be the end for the FC Ifeanyiubah goalkeeper in the national team. Against Algeria, Ezenwa was a suspect, especially during set pieces. He almost cost a goal when he spilled a cross before an Algerian pounced to head over the bar.
With his performances, Gernot Rohr should be looking for more options ahead of the World Cup.
2. Shehu Abdullahi has made the right-back position his own
Abdullahi's stint as Super Eagles right back was never incontestable. A known midfielder, Nigerian football observers and critics were all waiting for better options for the Super Eagles right-back position.
Following a Man of the Match performance against Zambia in October, 24-year-old put in another solid shift to seal his spot as Super Eagles number one right-back.
With Ola Aina likely to challenge for left-back position and Tyronne Ebuehi apparently not trusted by Rohr, Adbullahi is the best right-back in the Super Eagles squad.
3. John Ogu should be a starter
ALSO READ: Super Eagles players' ratings against Algeria
Ogu has also been a curious case in the Super Eagles squad. Always good for a call-up but never gets any action.
In Rohr’s more than a year reign as Super Eagles boss, Ogu had only played in the 1-1 draw against Senegal in a friendly in March 2017.
Against Algeria, Ogu had his chance and seized the opportunity to deliver a Man of the Match performance. The 29-year-old dominated the midfield with his composed play. The way he held the ball, passed and tackled all through, it looked so easy for him.
Capping his performance with a goal was a good way to announce himself to Nigerian football fans. What an announcement.
4. Iwobi needs a chance in the middle
Since his debut in 2016, Alex Iwobi has been impressive for the Super Eagles but against Algeria, the Arsenal man was lost. He struggled at the wings for the Super Eagles before he was substituted.
Some of his best play came anytime he cut inside the midfield. He struggled in midfield when Nigeria lost to South Africa in June, but the 21-year-old needs another chance there.
5. Kelechi Iheanacho is out of form
Iheanacho has had a poor season so far at Leicester City where he has struggled for game time.
Against Algeria, the former Manchester City man was lost again, barely having any influence in the game.
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