Porous and ineffective midfield: I don’t know if we would have played better in the 4-4-2 Keshi decided on against Greece, if the midfield was working well. Or maybe the game was crying out for our favoured 4-3-3 formation. Either way, most times the midfield was non-existent and the Greeks flooded the Nigeria territory as soon as they won the ball back.
Rusty players: A few Nigerian players did not show the composure, touch and skill that they’ve become identified with on the night. Yes, Emenike, Mikel Obi and Odemwingie I am looking at you. You need to step it up in subsequent matches.
Enyeama is still number 1: It was so reassuring to see the Lille stopper in between the sticks for the Super Eagles. Enyeama brings calm, presence and experience to our defence. Once again, he proved he’s the best we have with a couple of five saves.
Keshi’s reluctance: As soon as Elderson Echiejile’s hamstring gave way, you would have expected Keshi to call up Ochaniwa as a like-for-like replacement. Instead the Big Boss introduced Odunlami and shunted Ambrose to left-back. Proves what I’ve mentioned before about the quality of our back-up players.
Poor attacking play: The Eagles were uncoordinated in their attacks. Their passing was suspect, their movement was sluggish and their decision making in the final third need massive improvement.
Igiebor and Uzoenyi should have made the 23: For authority and bite in midfield, Igiebor should have been included. For creativity and set-piece deliveries, Uzoenyi should have made the cut. End of.
Bright spots: Well done to players like Victor Moses, Omeruo, Enyeama, Ambrose, Onazi and Echiejile, who put in a good showing on the night.
‘Ifreke Inyang tweets via @Ifreke
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