Arguably Nigeria’s second-best contingents to any FIFA World Cup the country has qualified for, the Super Eagles 2014 squad shook the foundations of the continental stage at the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Even if it was only for a moment.
The Super Eagles began their campaign at the 2014 WC with a difficult draw against Iran. Fortunately, the team was able to make up for their draw to Iran with a remarkable show of sheer skill and absolute determination as they defeated WC debutantes, Bosnia and Herzegovina,1-0.
Nigeria 1 – 0 Bosnia
With Argentina having qualified from Group F with one match left to play, all three remaining teams had only one objective; defeat every opponent to get to the final spot.
Bosnia came at the Nigerian squad with everything they had, giving the African champions a run for their money.
For WC debutantes looked rather relaxed, playing attractive football and controlling the flow of the game.
However, experience they say, is the best teacher. And the Nigerian team had had enough of this to know what to do to break through the sleek Bosnian defense.
John Mikel Obi and Ogenyi Onazi trolled the Bosnian goal side for an opener with brisk shots that rattled Bosnian goalkeeper, Asmir Begović .
Things were about to get tough for Nigeria after Edin Dzeko latched on to Zvejzdan Misimovic’s brilliant through-pass, sending it past Vincent Enyeama. Thankfully, the offside flag was up and Bosnia was denied the lead, restoring Nigeria’s hope for a win.
Barely 28 minutes into the game, Emmanuel Emenike raced with fierce momentum as he outran Emir Spahic down the right flank, before he sent a superb pass to Peter Osaze Odemwingie who coolly slotted the ball past
Begović .
Finally, Nigeria was in the lead, but the Bosnians were determined not to let this last. Still hoping to break through the Nigerian defense and take their first win of the tournament, the Bosnian team assaulted Enyeama with several tactical shots that saw the goaltender pull some of his best career saves.
The Bosnians were good for it, just not good enough to take down Nigeria’s formidable squad.
The Super Eagles held their fort until the final whistle, claiming their first win of the tournament as they sent Bosnia home.
Featured image source: The Telegraph