The secretary-general of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Bolaji Ojo-Oba, has announced that the country will not play a warm-up game before their World Cup qualifier against Tunisia in Abuja on September 6.
"The European season would have commenced fully by August 12 and our players would be struggling for first-team shirts at their respective clubs," argued Ojo-Oba.
"If we get them to play the friendly, that could affect them in that regard.
"However, the team will play a friendly after the game against Tunisia in Abuja."
Head of the NFF technical committee, Taiwo Ogunjobi, said last week that the association was considering a warm-up against a North African team, just like Tunisia, for August.
Nigeria coach, Shuaibu Amodu, has already turned down a proposal for the Super Eagles to take on Uruguay in an August friendly in London, insisting he would prefer an African opposition.
Tunisia lead Group Two with seven points from three matches, while Nigeria are second and two points adrift.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Sunday, June 21, 2009
Maputo Draw Still Haunts Super Eagles
Saturday's 0-0 draw inside the impressive November 7 Stadium in Rades, near Tunis, would have been better celebrated had the Super Eagles not dropped two points away to Mozambique in March.
There was a huge public outcry when the Eagles barely escaped from Maputo with a point, 24 hours after Tunisia had recorded a valuable 2-1 victory in Kenya.
Supporters of the team could not understand why the Eagles were so knocked about after this result, arguing that the team were still unbeaten in the qualifying tournament for the 2010 World Cup.
The draw in Mozambique meant that the Eagles dropped two points, and the situation was further worsened by the fact that Tunisia, who were always going to be Nigeria's main rivals in this group, gained two points on the road against a decent Kenyan side.
An official described Saturday's draw in Tunis as a 'Golden draw'. Had Nigeria lost, they could well have kissed World Cup qualification goodbye.
What this result now means is that the Eagles' home game against the same north Africans on September 6 in Abuja will assume far greater importance. A win, even by the narrowest of margins, would shoot Nigeria to the top of the group, while a draw or a victory for the Tunisians will again restore the advantage to the Carthage Eagles.
The stalemate in Tunis has now afforded Nigeria the chance to determine their destiny, rather than depend on other teams and other results to decide their fate.
Yet, getting victory on September 6 is another thing altogether.
On Saturday, what we saw was a Nigerian team that lacked ambition and were understandably the happier of the two teams when the Malian referee sounded the final whistle.
Attacking football has always been the forte of Nigerian football, but against a beateable Tunisian team, the Eagles' strike force was non-existent.
Ikechukwu Uche, the liverwire of the Nigerian campaign thus far, was always going to be a marked man, but in fairness to him, the midfield lacked the capacity to create things going forward.
Team officials informed that it was the responsibility of Chelsea's Mikel John Obi to initiate these attacks, but we all saw that on the day, he did not produce.
Kalu Uche was the other player expected to create chances for the frontmen, but he too was anonymous, meaning that the few chances the Eagles created in front of goal were by Obinna Nsofor and one delightful low cross by Osaze Odemwingie, which Michael Eneramo failed to direct towards goal in the closing stages of the encounter.
The biggest positive from the Tunis match would most probably be the compusure, athletism and understanding in defence. Olubayo Adefemi has not played club football for the past six months, but he did not suffer any match rustiness.
Once upon a time, the right full-back position was the personal property of Chidi Odiah, but now the CSKA Moscow ace is third in the pecking order behind Adefemi and Yusuf Mohammed.
In the heart of the defence, the combination of Joseph Yobo and Dele Adeleye appears finally to be the answer to the prayers of the team handlers who have agonised over this position.
Yobo and Adeleye played for each other, and for many, including this writer, Adeleye was Nigeria's best performer on the day. It is a very fitting reward that he will get married this coming week. The next thing would be for him to move to a better club than Dutch perennial relegation battlers Sparta Rotterdam. His talent deserves far more than that.
Between now and September is a very long time in football.
In this time, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) have got an agreement for a friendly against Uruguay in London, even though coach Shuaibu Amodu would prefer an African opposition. Whatever the case, the Eagles are obliged to play a warm-up in August.
Nigerians hope that the likes of Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Obafemi Martins and Chinedu Ogbuke would have recovered fully from injuries because the Eagles need their best for this must-win game.
But again, who will be that player to create things from midfield for these top-class finishers?
Nwankwo Kanu?
There was a huge public outcry when the Eagles barely escaped from Maputo with a point, 24 hours after Tunisia had recorded a valuable 2-1 victory in Kenya.
Supporters of the team could not understand why the Eagles were so knocked about after this result, arguing that the team were still unbeaten in the qualifying tournament for the 2010 World Cup.
The draw in Mozambique meant that the Eagles dropped two points, and the situation was further worsened by the fact that Tunisia, who were always going to be Nigeria's main rivals in this group, gained two points on the road against a decent Kenyan side.
An official described Saturday's draw in Tunis as a 'Golden draw'. Had Nigeria lost, they could well have kissed World Cup qualification goodbye.
What this result now means is that the Eagles' home game against the same north Africans on September 6 in Abuja will assume far greater importance. A win, even by the narrowest of margins, would shoot Nigeria to the top of the group, while a draw or a victory for the Tunisians will again restore the advantage to the Carthage Eagles.
The stalemate in Tunis has now afforded Nigeria the chance to determine their destiny, rather than depend on other teams and other results to decide their fate.
Yet, getting victory on September 6 is another thing altogether.
On Saturday, what we saw was a Nigerian team that lacked ambition and were understandably the happier of the two teams when the Malian referee sounded the final whistle.
Attacking football has always been the forte of Nigerian football, but against a beateable Tunisian team, the Eagles' strike force was non-existent.
Ikechukwu Uche, the liverwire of the Nigerian campaign thus far, was always going to be a marked man, but in fairness to him, the midfield lacked the capacity to create things going forward.
Team officials informed that it was the responsibility of Chelsea's Mikel John Obi to initiate these attacks, but we all saw that on the day, he did not produce.
Kalu Uche was the other player expected to create chances for the frontmen, but he too was anonymous, meaning that the few chances the Eagles created in front of goal were by Obinna Nsofor and one delightful low cross by Osaze Odemwingie, which Michael Eneramo failed to direct towards goal in the closing stages of the encounter.
The biggest positive from the Tunis match would most probably be the compusure, athletism and understanding in defence. Olubayo Adefemi has not played club football for the past six months, but he did not suffer any match rustiness.
Once upon a time, the right full-back position was the personal property of Chidi Odiah, but now the CSKA Moscow ace is third in the pecking order behind Adefemi and Yusuf Mohammed.
In the heart of the defence, the combination of Joseph Yobo and Dele Adeleye appears finally to be the answer to the prayers of the team handlers who have agonised over this position.
Yobo and Adeleye played for each other, and for many, including this writer, Adeleye was Nigeria's best performer on the day. It is a very fitting reward that he will get married this coming week. The next thing would be for him to move to a better club than Dutch perennial relegation battlers Sparta Rotterdam. His talent deserves far more than that.
Between now and September is a very long time in football.
In this time, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) have got an agreement for a friendly against Uruguay in London, even though coach Shuaibu Amodu would prefer an African opposition. Whatever the case, the Eagles are obliged to play a warm-up in August.
Nigerians hope that the likes of Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Obafemi Martins and Chinedu Ogbuke would have recovered fully from injuries because the Eagles need their best for this must-win game.
But again, who will be that player to create things from midfield for these top-class finishers?
Nwankwo Kanu?
Nigeria Hold Tunisia To Draw
Tunisia still lead Group Two of African World Cup qualifying after nearest rivals Nigeria hold them to a 0-0 draw at the November 7 Stadium in Rades, near Tunis, on Sunday.
After three matches, Tunisia are on seven points, two points ahead of second-placed Nigeria. Kenya, who defeated Mozambique 2-1 also on Saturday, are third in the group with three points.
First Half
The host team were led by Karim Haggui, while the very experienced Radhi Jaidi was dropped to the bench.
Nigeria, on the other hand, made four changes to the starting team that beat Kenya at home two weeks ago with Everton defender Joseph Yobo, Taye Taiwo from Olympique Marseille, Chelsea's Mikel John Obi and right fullback Olubayo Adefemi all back in the fray.
The Super Eagles kicked off this crunch game, but it was the Tunisians who really launched into attack in search of an early go-ahead goal.
Within the first 15 minutes Nigeria conceded three corner kicks as the North African outfit dictated the pace of the game.
The closest the home team came to going ahead was in the 16th minute when Seif Ghezel was allowed a free header off another Tunisian corner inside the box, but goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama did well to scramble the ball to safety.
It was not till about the 20th minute that the Nigerian Eagles put together their first real attack when Obinna Nsofor dashed free of his marker on the left wing, but his final cross beat he lone Nigerian striker inside the box as well as the Tunisian defenders.
Before the half hour, both Dele Adeleye and Yobo had to come to Nigeria's rescue as Tunisia continued to mount pressure.
It was therefore a frustrated Tunisia that let in Nigeria towards the closing stages of the first period to make two fine efforts at goal. First, Kalu Uche shot wide from the top of the box and moments later, Nsofor tested the reflexes of Kasroui with a shot from inside the 18-yard area.
Second Half
At the restart, Tunisia continued to attack.
Anis Boussaidi was fouled by Taiwo on the left side of the vital area but Tunisia could not make anything out of the eventual free kick as Nigeria continued to hang on for dear life.
The goal hero against Mozambique two weeks ago, Oussama Darragi, was lively in the Tunisia frontline but Yobo always kept a close watch over him.
The Super Eagles made two changes soon after with Nwankwo Kanu in the ineffective Kalu Uche and Michael Eneramo replacing injured Nsofor.
The Carthage Eagles continued to attack but not with the same tempo of the first half.
In one of the few Nigerian attacks in this half, Taiwo tried one of his trademark thunderbolts, although it did not trouble the Tunisian goalkeeper.
Eneramo would have emerged as a hero late on in the game, but he failed to direct a cross delivered by Osaze Odemwingie with the Tunisian defence beaten.
Adeleye in the heart of the Nigerian defence was outstanding as he did not put a foot wrong as Tunisia pressed on for a goal.
However, as the minutes ticked away, the host team appeared frustrated while Nigeria were only too happy to hold out for a result on the hope that they will take all three points when both teams clash again in September in Abuja.
After three matches, Tunisia are on seven points, two points ahead of second-placed Nigeria. Kenya, who defeated Mozambique 2-1 also on Saturday, are third in the group with three points.
First Half
The host team were led by Karim Haggui, while the very experienced Radhi Jaidi was dropped to the bench.
Nigeria, on the other hand, made four changes to the starting team that beat Kenya at home two weeks ago with Everton defender Joseph Yobo, Taye Taiwo from Olympique Marseille, Chelsea's Mikel John Obi and right fullback Olubayo Adefemi all back in the fray.
The Super Eagles kicked off this crunch game, but it was the Tunisians who really launched into attack in search of an early go-ahead goal.
Within the first 15 minutes Nigeria conceded three corner kicks as the North African outfit dictated the pace of the game.
The closest the home team came to going ahead was in the 16th minute when Seif Ghezel was allowed a free header off another Tunisian corner inside the box, but goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama did well to scramble the ball to safety.
It was not till about the 20th minute that the Nigerian Eagles put together their first real attack when Obinna Nsofor dashed free of his marker on the left wing, but his final cross beat he lone Nigerian striker inside the box as well as the Tunisian defenders.
Before the half hour, both Dele Adeleye and Yobo had to come to Nigeria's rescue as Tunisia continued to mount pressure.
It was therefore a frustrated Tunisia that let in Nigeria towards the closing stages of the first period to make two fine efforts at goal. First, Kalu Uche shot wide from the top of the box and moments later, Nsofor tested the reflexes of Kasroui with a shot from inside the 18-yard area.
Second Half
At the restart, Tunisia continued to attack.
Anis Boussaidi was fouled by Taiwo on the left side of the vital area but Tunisia could not make anything out of the eventual free kick as Nigeria continued to hang on for dear life.
The goal hero against Mozambique two weeks ago, Oussama Darragi, was lively in the Tunisia frontline but Yobo always kept a close watch over him.
The Super Eagles made two changes soon after with Nwankwo Kanu in the ineffective Kalu Uche and Michael Eneramo replacing injured Nsofor.
The Carthage Eagles continued to attack but not with the same tempo of the first half.
In one of the few Nigerian attacks in this half, Taiwo tried one of his trademark thunderbolts, although it did not trouble the Tunisian goalkeeper.
Eneramo would have emerged as a hero late on in the game, but he failed to direct a cross delivered by Osaze Odemwingie with the Tunisian defence beaten.
Adeleye in the heart of the Nigerian defence was outstanding as he did not put a foot wrong as Tunisia pressed on for a goal.
However, as the minutes ticked away, the host team appeared frustrated while Nigeria were only too happy to hold out for a result on the hope that they will take all three points when both teams clash again in September in Abuja.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Eagles ready for any intimidation
The Nigeria team arrived in Tunis on Thursday set to face any kind of intimidation from Tunisians before, during and after Saturday’s World Cup qualifying match at the November 7 Stadium in Rades.
Team captain Nwankwo Kanu minced no words when he said the Eagles do not expect niceties from the North Africans. "We are here to play an important match and that is what we will concentrate on. Our mission is to get a result; not bother how they try to undermine us. Football is serious business and the World Cup is much more serious business."
After three days of useful tactical and technical training in Ta Qali, the capital city of the tiny European country of Malta, the Eagles travelled 65 minutes by air into Tunis, the Mediterranean –bordered capital city of Tunisia, arriving in the early hours of Thursday.
Officials confirmed that the 23 Eagles who were in Malta trained on natural grass and artificial turf at different times. "We wanted to be prepared for any eventuality," said a Member of the technical crew.
On arrival at the Aeroport Tunis de Carthage on Thursday, the players and officials were received by the Ambassador of Nigeria in Tunis, Alhaji Abdulkadir Abdulkadir Musa and staff of the Mission. They were driven to the Hotel Laico, the top –ranking hotel in Tunis, which used to be known as Hotel Abou Nawas.
At lunch on Thursday, Ambassador Musa urged the players to be focused and expect all kinds of intimidation from players of the Tunisian team and even the fans. "However, I know that you are all professionals and will not allow those things to bother you", he said. Ambassador Musa could not be at the team’s training session yesterday because he was invited by the British Embassy to attend the birthday ceremonies of Queen Elizabeth 2.
Just after lunch, the team was pleasantly surprised to see defender Joseph Yobo, goalkeeper Dele Aiyenugba, striker John Utaka and assistant Coach Daniel Amokachi, who were actually being expected in the evening. The players decided to travel by British Airways out of Nigeria and Wednesday and by their ticket were expected to land in Tunis by 18h00 on Thursday.
"We chartered a flight from London to Tunis in the morning when we realized we could miss the training session in the evening. That would not be good because these players missed all the training sessions in Malta," explained Amokachi.
All 26 players in camp are in high spirit and Head Coach Shuaibu Amodu confirmed: "Everyone is in great shape. We will be able to pick the best from the lot."
PLAYERS IN CAMP: Goalkeepers Vincent Enyeama, Bamidele Aiyenugba and Austin Ejide; defenders Joseph Yobo, Ayodele Adeleye, Onyekachi Apam, Danny Shittu, Obinna Nwaneri, Taye Taiwo, Elderson Echiejile, Yusuf Mohammed, Olubayo Adefemi and Sam Sodje; midfielders Nwankwo Kanu, Osaze Odemwingie, Sani Kaita, Kalu Uche, Olufemi Ajilore, Mikel Obi, Seyi Olofinjana and Dickson Etuhu; strikers Obinna Nsofor, Ikechukwu Uche, Joseph Akpala, John Utaka and Michael Eneramo.
The last time both teams played on the turf of November 7 Stadium, in February 2004, it was the semi finals of the African Cup of Nations. The match ended 1-1 after regulation and extra time, with both goals coming through penalties. Nigeria scored first after Nwankwo Kanu was double –teamed in the box, and Beninoise referee Codjia Coffi pointed to the spot. Skipper Jay Jay Okocha converted.
Riadh Bouazizi equalized for Tunisia with only 13 minutes left, after Seyi Olofinjana was adjudged to have fouled Ziad Jaziri in the Nigeria box.
But Nigeria players will remember the day for the antics of Tunisian officials, who played the old Nigeria anthem of ‘Nigeria, we hail thee’ before kick–off and only played the right one of ‘Arise o Compatriots’ at the start of the second half. The Nigeria team bus was stoned severally as the Eagles made their way out of the Stadium that night.
The weather is fine in Tunis as this is summer, and the Nigeria team will train this evening at the hour of the match: 19h00. Saturday’s game will start at 19h10.
The chartered Arik aircraft that will convey Members of the Presidential Task Force, ministers, other politicians and members of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club will land in Tunis by 16h00 Friday, according to the schedule.
Team captain Nwankwo Kanu minced no words when he said the Eagles do not expect niceties from the North Africans. "We are here to play an important match and that is what we will concentrate on. Our mission is to get a result; not bother how they try to undermine us. Football is serious business and the World Cup is much more serious business."
After three days of useful tactical and technical training in Ta Qali, the capital city of the tiny European country of Malta, the Eagles travelled 65 minutes by air into Tunis, the Mediterranean –bordered capital city of Tunisia, arriving in the early hours of Thursday.
Officials confirmed that the 23 Eagles who were in Malta trained on natural grass and artificial turf at different times. "We wanted to be prepared for any eventuality," said a Member of the technical crew.
On arrival at the Aeroport Tunis de Carthage on Thursday, the players and officials were received by the Ambassador of Nigeria in Tunis, Alhaji Abdulkadir Abdulkadir Musa and staff of the Mission. They were driven to the Hotel Laico, the top –ranking hotel in Tunis, which used to be known as Hotel Abou Nawas.
At lunch on Thursday, Ambassador Musa urged the players to be focused and expect all kinds of intimidation from players of the Tunisian team and even the fans. "However, I know that you are all professionals and will not allow those things to bother you", he said. Ambassador Musa could not be at the team’s training session yesterday because he was invited by the British Embassy to attend the birthday ceremonies of Queen Elizabeth 2.
Just after lunch, the team was pleasantly surprised to see defender Joseph Yobo, goalkeeper Dele Aiyenugba, striker John Utaka and assistant Coach Daniel Amokachi, who were actually being expected in the evening. The players decided to travel by British Airways out of Nigeria and Wednesday and by their ticket were expected to land in Tunis by 18h00 on Thursday.
"We chartered a flight from London to Tunis in the morning when we realized we could miss the training session in the evening. That would not be good because these players missed all the training sessions in Malta," explained Amokachi.
All 26 players in camp are in high spirit and Head Coach Shuaibu Amodu confirmed: "Everyone is in great shape. We will be able to pick the best from the lot."
PLAYERS IN CAMP: Goalkeepers Vincent Enyeama, Bamidele Aiyenugba and Austin Ejide; defenders Joseph Yobo, Ayodele Adeleye, Onyekachi Apam, Danny Shittu, Obinna Nwaneri, Taye Taiwo, Elderson Echiejile, Yusuf Mohammed, Olubayo Adefemi and Sam Sodje; midfielders Nwankwo Kanu, Osaze Odemwingie, Sani Kaita, Kalu Uche, Olufemi Ajilore, Mikel Obi, Seyi Olofinjana and Dickson Etuhu; strikers Obinna Nsofor, Ikechukwu Uche, Joseph Akpala, John Utaka and Michael Eneramo.
The last time both teams played on the turf of November 7 Stadium, in February 2004, it was the semi finals of the African Cup of Nations. The match ended 1-1 after regulation and extra time, with both goals coming through penalties. Nigeria scored first after Nwankwo Kanu was double –teamed in the box, and Beninoise referee Codjia Coffi pointed to the spot. Skipper Jay Jay Okocha converted.
Riadh Bouazizi equalized for Tunisia with only 13 minutes left, after Seyi Olofinjana was adjudged to have fouled Ziad Jaziri in the Nigeria box.
But Nigeria players will remember the day for the antics of Tunisian officials, who played the old Nigeria anthem of ‘Nigeria, we hail thee’ before kick–off and only played the right one of ‘Arise o Compatriots’ at the start of the second half. The Nigeria team bus was stoned severally as the Eagles made their way out of the Stadium that night.
The weather is fine in Tunis as this is summer, and the Nigeria team will train this evening at the hour of the match: 19h00. Saturday’s game will start at 19h10.
The chartered Arik aircraft that will convey Members of the Presidential Task Force, ministers, other politicians and members of the Nigeria Football Supporters Club will land in Tunis by 16h00 Friday, according to the schedule.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Nigeria Beat Kenya
Like it was in 1997 and 2003, Nigeria on Sunday at the Abuja National Stadium trounced visiting Haramabee Stars of Kenya 3-0 to keep the chase on Group Two leaders Tunisia.
Spain-based Ikechukwu Uche opened scoring for the home side after just two minutes. However, it was in the second half that Nigeria enjoyed much respite from a hard working Kenyan side when Inter Milan ace Obinna Nsofor netted from the penalty spot after Osaze Odemwingie was felled inside the box.
Nsofor hit a brace four minutes later when he thundered home from inside the box. Tunisia stay top of the group with six points from two matches, while Nigeria are two points behind in second place. Both teams clash in Tunis in two weeks time at the Rades Stadium in a match that could well give a good indication of the overall leadership of this group.
First Half
A packed 60,000-capacity Abuja National Stadium, awash with Nigeria's colours of green and white, welcomed a youthful starting XI without high-profile absentees from the Super Eagles recent friendlies - Joseph Yobo, Mikel John Obi and Taye Taiwo.In the heart of the attack, goal hero against Republic of Ireland, Michael Eneramo, is preferred to Joseph Akpala, who grabbed the winner against France in Saint-Etienne.
Kenya also made three changes from the team that started against Tunisia in Nairobi in March - goalkeeper Arnold Origi and midfielders Oboya and Austin Makacha.It took Nigeria only two minutes to get off to the perfect start when Ikechukwu Uche found the back of the net. The Getafe forward combined with his older brother, Kalu Uche, but it was really a poor clearance by Kenyan defender, George Owino, that allowed Ikechukwu Uche to continue with his run on goal before he coolly drove home past goalkeeper Arnold Origi.
Even after his goal, Uche remained a constant danger to Kenya, while youngster Elderson Echejile grew so much in confidence that he even joined the attack from his left fullback position. Kenya's first attempt at goal came after quarter of an hour when Dennis Oliech let fly from distance but goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama saved easily.
The Harambee Stars steadily began to have a say in proceedings as they began to string passes between themselves. MacDonald Mariga tested Enyeama with a cleanly struck shot on 26 minutes, and a minute later, Oliech came even closer but his shot from the edge of 18-yard box shaved the crossbar.Disjointed play by Nigeria at this point in the encounter.
Oliech again came close in the 34th minute, when he found himself inside the box only to see his shot miss its mark. Moments later, Odemwingie would have doubled Nigeria's lead when he was set up by Ikechukwu Uche, but Origi blocked his powerful shot. The Russia-based striker wasted an even better chance three minutes later when his effort from top of the box missed target by inches. Just before the interval, Kenya's Origi spilled an Ikechukwu cross from the right but Esperance of Tunisia striker Eneramo could not take advantage of this clanger with the ball metres from the goalline.
Second Half
Nigeria make one change by the interval - Nwankwo Kanu in for an annonymous Dickson Etuhu. The Super eagles go into attack immediately after the restart.In the 54th minute, Odemwingie's effort from an acute angle on the left is scrambled awayby Origi for a corner.
But in the 62nd minute, Kenya had two chances in quick succession - Auxerre's Oliech was involved in both occasions, first he preferred to square the ball with the Nigerian defence on the back foot and seconds later, he again decided to pass the ball inside the box after he had rounded up goalkeeper Enyeama. It was a big let-off for Nigeria, who finally got the buffer goal in the 72nd minute when substitute Obinna Nsofor tucked home a penalty.
Goal-bound Osaze was felled inside the box and Moroccan referee El Achiri Abdellah pointed to the penalty spot. Four minutes Nsofor thundered home from inside the box for Nigeria's third goal. A great move started by Kanu saw Echejile thread through a cross from the left, Ikechukwu miskicked to allow Nsofor control the ball before firing home.Nsofor almost completed a hat-trick five minutes from time but his low shot missed target only just.
Nigeria - Vincent Enyeama - Yusuf Mohammed, Dele Adeleye, Sam Sodje (Onyekachi Apam 76), Elderson Echejile, Seyi Olofinjana (Capt), Kalu Uche, Dickson Etuhu (Nwankwo Kanu 45) - Ikechukwu Uche, Michael Eneramo (Obinna Nsofor 54), Osaze Odemwingie
Coach: Shuaibu Amodu
Kenya - Arnold origi - Joseph Owino, George Owino, Musa Otieno (Capt), John Njoroge - Austin Makacha, MacDonald Mariga, Robert Mumba (allan wanga 65), Paschal Ochieng, Patrick Oboya (Mugabe 74) - Dennis Oliech (Peter Opiyo 87)
Coach: Antoine Hey
Spain-based Ikechukwu Uche opened scoring for the home side after just two minutes. However, it was in the second half that Nigeria enjoyed much respite from a hard working Kenyan side when Inter Milan ace Obinna Nsofor netted from the penalty spot after Osaze Odemwingie was felled inside the box.
Nsofor hit a brace four minutes later when he thundered home from inside the box. Tunisia stay top of the group with six points from two matches, while Nigeria are two points behind in second place. Both teams clash in Tunis in two weeks time at the Rades Stadium in a match that could well give a good indication of the overall leadership of this group.
First Half
A packed 60,000-capacity Abuja National Stadium, awash with Nigeria's colours of green and white, welcomed a youthful starting XI without high-profile absentees from the Super Eagles recent friendlies - Joseph Yobo, Mikel John Obi and Taye Taiwo.In the heart of the attack, goal hero against Republic of Ireland, Michael Eneramo, is preferred to Joseph Akpala, who grabbed the winner against France in Saint-Etienne.
Kenya also made three changes from the team that started against Tunisia in Nairobi in March - goalkeeper Arnold Origi and midfielders Oboya and Austin Makacha.It took Nigeria only two minutes to get off to the perfect start when Ikechukwu Uche found the back of the net. The Getafe forward combined with his older brother, Kalu Uche, but it was really a poor clearance by Kenyan defender, George Owino, that allowed Ikechukwu Uche to continue with his run on goal before he coolly drove home past goalkeeper Arnold Origi.
Even after his goal, Uche remained a constant danger to Kenya, while youngster Elderson Echejile grew so much in confidence that he even joined the attack from his left fullback position. Kenya's first attempt at goal came after quarter of an hour when Dennis Oliech let fly from distance but goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama saved easily.
The Harambee Stars steadily began to have a say in proceedings as they began to string passes between themselves. MacDonald Mariga tested Enyeama with a cleanly struck shot on 26 minutes, and a minute later, Oliech came even closer but his shot from the edge of 18-yard box shaved the crossbar.Disjointed play by Nigeria at this point in the encounter.
Oliech again came close in the 34th minute, when he found himself inside the box only to see his shot miss its mark. Moments later, Odemwingie would have doubled Nigeria's lead when he was set up by Ikechukwu Uche, but Origi blocked his powerful shot. The Russia-based striker wasted an even better chance three minutes later when his effort from top of the box missed target by inches. Just before the interval, Kenya's Origi spilled an Ikechukwu cross from the right but Esperance of Tunisia striker Eneramo could not take advantage of this clanger with the ball metres from the goalline.
Second Half
Nigeria make one change by the interval - Nwankwo Kanu in for an annonymous Dickson Etuhu. The Super eagles go into attack immediately after the restart.In the 54th minute, Odemwingie's effort from an acute angle on the left is scrambled awayby Origi for a corner.
But in the 62nd minute, Kenya had two chances in quick succession - Auxerre's Oliech was involved in both occasions, first he preferred to square the ball with the Nigerian defence on the back foot and seconds later, he again decided to pass the ball inside the box after he had rounded up goalkeeper Enyeama. It was a big let-off for Nigeria, who finally got the buffer goal in the 72nd minute when substitute Obinna Nsofor tucked home a penalty.
Goal-bound Osaze was felled inside the box and Moroccan referee El Achiri Abdellah pointed to the penalty spot. Four minutes Nsofor thundered home from inside the box for Nigeria's third goal. A great move started by Kanu saw Echejile thread through a cross from the left, Ikechukwu miskicked to allow Nsofor control the ball before firing home.Nsofor almost completed a hat-trick five minutes from time but his low shot missed target only just.
Nigeria - Vincent Enyeama - Yusuf Mohammed, Dele Adeleye, Sam Sodje (Onyekachi Apam 76), Elderson Echejile, Seyi Olofinjana (Capt), Kalu Uche, Dickson Etuhu (Nwankwo Kanu 45) - Ikechukwu Uche, Michael Eneramo (Obinna Nsofor 54), Osaze Odemwingie
Coach: Shuaibu Amodu
Kenya - Arnold origi - Joseph Owino, George Owino, Musa Otieno (Capt), John Njoroge - Austin Makacha, MacDonald Mariga, Robert Mumba (allan wanga 65), Paschal Ochieng, Patrick Oboya (Mugabe 74) - Dennis Oliech (Peter Opiyo 87)
Coach: Antoine Hey
Friday, June 5, 2009
TEAM NEWS
TEAM NEWS
Nigeria
Newcastle United striker Obafemi Martins will not be available against both Kenya and Tunisia this month as he has opted for a hernia operation this summer.Nigeria are sweating on the fitness of several players ahead of Sunday's game.
The players include Hoffenheim forward Chinedu Obasi, Bolton defender Danny Shittu as well as Everton star Joseph Yobo.Defender Obinna Nwaneri will not be available for this match as he is serving out a one-match suspension after he picked up his second booking in Mozambique in March.
Former international Victor Ikpeba ruffled a few feathers after he suggested that some of the high-profile absentees during the friendlies against Republic Ireland and France should not be considered for this game.
Squad:
Goalkeepers - Vincent Enyeama, Austin Ejide, Dele Aiyenugba
Defenders – Onyekachi Apam, Yusuf Mohammed, Joseph Yobo, Danny Shittu, Obinna Nwaneri, Taye Taiwo, Chidi Odiah, Elderson Echiejile, Dele Adeleye, Olubayo Adefemi, Chibuzo Okonkwo
Midfielders - John Mikel Obi, Sani Kaita, Seyi Olofinjana, Kalu Uche, Yusuf Ayila, Oluwafemi Ajilore, Dickson Etuhu
Forwards - Nwankwo Kanu, Obafemi Martins, Osaze Odemwingie, Obinna Nsofor, Ikechukwu Uche, Chinedu Obasi, Joseph Akpala
Kenya
Midfielders John 'Mo' Muiruri and Austin Makacha have been recalled to the team for the trip to Nigeria. 'Mo', 30, who last featured for Kenya in a 2-1 shock loss against Eritrea at Kasarani in September 2006, plays for Norway's second tier side Moss FK.
Austin Makacha, a kingpin in the Kenyan midfield and 2008 Kenya Premier League midfielder of the year, returns to the team after missing the Tunisia tie following a club-country controversy. Makacha plays for IK Sirius in Sweden's lower league.
Allan Wanga of Angolan side Petro Atletico is also back in the fold to boost the Stars strike force. Coach Hey did not fly out with the team to Nigeria over a pay row. He later travelled after the sports minister intervened.
Squad:
Goalkeepers- David Okello, Willis Ochieng’, Arnold Origi
Defenders- Joseph Shikokoti, Musa Otieno, Pascal Ochieng’, Mulinge Munandi, George Owino, Julius Owino, John Njoroge
Midfielders- MacDonald Mariga, Victor Mugabe, John Muiruri, Austin Makacha, Robert Mambo, Peter Opiyo, Osborn Monday
Forwards- Patrick Oboya, Dennis Oliech, Allan Wanga
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Nigeria - Osaze Odemwingie: The Russia-based forward posted a stinker against Mozambique in March but he has since redeemed himself with a man-of-the-match performance against France in Saint-Etienne. He covered every blade of grass, from defence down to attack, and a similar showing against kenya would propel the Eagles to a resounding victory.
Kenya - MacDonald Mariga: For a squad with seven defenders and seven midfielders, defence will be the name of the game. Parma’s MacDonald Mariga, fresh from helping his side gain promotion back to Italian Serie A, is expected to take the commanding role in midfield with his ball winning and passing skills. He has already been linked with a transfer to a top Italian club in the summer.
Nigeria
Newcastle United striker Obafemi Martins will not be available against both Kenya and Tunisia this month as he has opted for a hernia operation this summer.Nigeria are sweating on the fitness of several players ahead of Sunday's game.
The players include Hoffenheim forward Chinedu Obasi, Bolton defender Danny Shittu as well as Everton star Joseph Yobo.Defender Obinna Nwaneri will not be available for this match as he is serving out a one-match suspension after he picked up his second booking in Mozambique in March.
Former international Victor Ikpeba ruffled a few feathers after he suggested that some of the high-profile absentees during the friendlies against Republic Ireland and France should not be considered for this game.
Squad:
Goalkeepers - Vincent Enyeama, Austin Ejide, Dele Aiyenugba
Defenders – Onyekachi Apam, Yusuf Mohammed, Joseph Yobo, Danny Shittu, Obinna Nwaneri, Taye Taiwo, Chidi Odiah, Elderson Echiejile, Dele Adeleye, Olubayo Adefemi, Chibuzo Okonkwo
Midfielders - John Mikel Obi, Sani Kaita, Seyi Olofinjana, Kalu Uche, Yusuf Ayila, Oluwafemi Ajilore, Dickson Etuhu
Forwards - Nwankwo Kanu, Obafemi Martins, Osaze Odemwingie, Obinna Nsofor, Ikechukwu Uche, Chinedu Obasi, Joseph Akpala
Kenya
Midfielders John 'Mo' Muiruri and Austin Makacha have been recalled to the team for the trip to Nigeria. 'Mo', 30, who last featured for Kenya in a 2-1 shock loss against Eritrea at Kasarani in September 2006, plays for Norway's second tier side Moss FK.
Austin Makacha, a kingpin in the Kenyan midfield and 2008 Kenya Premier League midfielder of the year, returns to the team after missing the Tunisia tie following a club-country controversy. Makacha plays for IK Sirius in Sweden's lower league.
Allan Wanga of Angolan side Petro Atletico is also back in the fold to boost the Stars strike force. Coach Hey did not fly out with the team to Nigeria over a pay row. He later travelled after the sports minister intervened.
Squad:
Goalkeepers- David Okello, Willis Ochieng’, Arnold Origi
Defenders- Joseph Shikokoti, Musa Otieno, Pascal Ochieng’, Mulinge Munandi, George Owino, Julius Owino, John Njoroge
Midfielders- MacDonald Mariga, Victor Mugabe, John Muiruri, Austin Makacha, Robert Mambo, Peter Opiyo, Osborn Monday
Forwards- Patrick Oboya, Dennis Oliech, Allan Wanga
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Nigeria - Osaze Odemwingie: The Russia-based forward posted a stinker against Mozambique in March but he has since redeemed himself with a man-of-the-match performance against France in Saint-Etienne. He covered every blade of grass, from defence down to attack, and a similar showing against kenya would propel the Eagles to a resounding victory.
Kenya - MacDonald Mariga: For a squad with seven defenders and seven midfielders, defence will be the name of the game. Parma’s MacDonald Mariga, fresh from helping his side gain promotion back to Italian Serie A, is expected to take the commanding role in midfield with his ball winning and passing skills. He has already been linked with a transfer to a top Italian club in the summer.
Nigeria President To Watch World Cup Tie Versus Kenya
Nigeria sports minister, Sani Ndanusa, has announced that the country's President, Musa Yar'Adua, will be among the crowd at the Abuja National Stadium to cheer the Super Eagles to victory on Sunday.
"The President has declared that he will be the number 12th man for the Eagles. He will therefore be at the game against Kenya on Sunday," said sports minister Ndanusa.
Last month, President Yar'Adua inaugurated a special task force to ensure that Nigeria qualify for the 2010 World Cup, saying it will be a national disaster if the country fail to do so.
In the meantime, 30 players will train later Friday at the Abuja Stadium ahead of the clash against Kenya. The players include skipper Nwankwo Kanu, Taye Taiwo, Mikel John Obi, Joseph Yobo, Chidi Odiah, John Utaka, Dickson Etuhu and Osaze Odemwingie.
Hoffenheim striker Chinedu Obasi, who has been nursing a hip injury will join up with the squad later today, so also Newcastle frontman Obafemi Martins.
Both players are not expected to play any part in Sunday's qualifier. Martins is set to undergo a hernia operation this summer, but Obasi could well return to action in time for the June 20 clash against Tunisia in Tunis.
"The President has declared that he will be the number 12th man for the Eagles. He will therefore be at the game against Kenya on Sunday," said sports minister Ndanusa.
Last month, President Yar'Adua inaugurated a special task force to ensure that Nigeria qualify for the 2010 World Cup, saying it will be a national disaster if the country fail to do so.
In the meantime, 30 players will train later Friday at the Abuja Stadium ahead of the clash against Kenya. The players include skipper Nwankwo Kanu, Taye Taiwo, Mikel John Obi, Joseph Yobo, Chidi Odiah, John Utaka, Dickson Etuhu and Osaze Odemwingie.
Hoffenheim striker Chinedu Obasi, who has been nursing a hip injury will join up with the squad later today, so also Newcastle frontman Obafemi Martins.
Both players are not expected to play any part in Sunday's qualifier. Martins is set to undergo a hernia operation this summer, but Obasi could well return to action in time for the June 20 clash against Tunisia in Tunis.
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