ACTUALITE |
09.10.2001
Eagles could do better
Sport Online`s Martin Davies, the World Service commentator at Nigeria v Japan, looks at how the Super Eagles compared in the battle for World Cup places
* Ike SHOROUNMU 4/10. Goalkeeper
Dubious ball handling didn`t inspire confidence in goal. Could have conceded a goal trying to dribble past Japanese strikers on two separate occasions.
* Karibe OJIGWE 6/10. Midfielder
Played in an unfamiliar right-back role. Was under pressure many times, which limited his frequent support of the attack. But when he did get forward he fired in some useful shots.
* Ifeanyi UDEZE 6/10. Defender
Was careless with the ball sometimes in defence. Mobile and entertaining as he joined the attack often, and flashed in some decent crosses.
* Eric EJIOFOR 6/10. Defender
Did well and was menancing with his presence at set-pieces. Forced the Japanese to concede an own-goal equaliser. But was rash with the tackles and deserved his red card.
* Isaac OKORONKWO 5/10. Defender
Won some tackles, but his ball distribution was poor.
* Austin "Jay-Jay" OKOCHA 7/10. Midfielder
Highly influential. Good passing, though could release the ball earlier. Powerful shooting - created Nigeria`s second goal.
* Sunday OLISEH 6/10. Midfielder
Played some excellent through balls to the right but disappeared from the action on occasion. Didn`t do enough to protect the back four.
* Finidi GEORGE 5/10. Forward
Provided one inspirational moment with a superb long-range half-volley. But anonymous at times - has played far better.
* Tijjani BABANGIDA 5/10. Forward
Promising start - looked lively and threatening. But lost his bearings somewhat, and needs to work on his crosses.
* Victor AGALI 5/10. Forward
Not as forceful and effective as he can be. Missed two great chances.
*Yakubu AIYEGBENI 5/10. Forward
Some great attacking bursts, after good work to lose his markers. But wasteful in front of goal - may not have scored if the match had gone on until midnight!
Substitutes
* Celestine BABAYARO 5/10. Defender
Returned to the team for the first time since January and slotted back in straight away. Second half replacement for Udeze.
* Julius AGHAHOWA 7/10. Forward
Came on in the last quarter for Babangida in an unfamiliar right wing position, but was sharp and lively. Played some neat, crisp football, provided a few crosses and got the second goal.
* Garba LAWAL 4/10. Forward
Replaced Agali in the last quarter of the second half but did nothing of value that stuck to memory.
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Hits: 1 | Source:BBC | |
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