The Super Eagles of Nigeria played their last friendly before the Worldcup in Jacksonville, Florida against host USA. The African Champions were out-tactic-ed by Jurgen Klinsmann.

A goal in each half by Sunderland’s Jozy Altidore was enough for the #USMNT to grab victory over the pedestrian paced Nigerians. Jozy Altidore has not scored a goal for club and country since December 2013 but he grabbed a brace over the West Africans.

For Jozy “the striker that doesn’t score” Altidore to score two goals, the second which is a striker’s delighy, than there is a big bold question mark on Nigeria’s back 4.

How far will Nigeria go with this poor defence? Yobo’s experience was turned aside by Jozy. More reasons the question of his inclusion is loud in many nigerian circle. How many will Dzeko, Aguero and Messi score in the group stage over Nigeria?

Injuries to Kenneth Omeruo and the bad news of Echiejile being out of the Worldcup is a major blow to the Super Eagles. Egwuekwe’s display against Scotland was not impressive. How will the defence cope?

The midfield was so pedestrian against USA that you wonder if it was same team that gave their all and energy against Greece. Were they scared off injury? Or they just just switched off knowing that they surely will be Brazil?

Upfront, the Eagles created little or no chance. Moses dilly dallied and fell too easily, easily dispossessed in various attempts to dribble past numerous Americans. Osaze was a passer-by and Ameobi was Ameobi.

The introduction of Uchebo and Emenike added urgency and seriousness upfront and thus the penalty that resulted to the only goal.

The standout performer was Vincent Enyeama who stood between the 2-0 scoreline and a potential 5-0 USA victory. Who will be his replacement? He is already above 30.

How far can Keshi go with this team. There is no going back. He has to justify his selections by getting the right results against Iran and Bosnia & Herzegovina. Iran may be underrated but they are quicker and operate as a team. It may be difficult for the Eagles to get 3pts from Iran.

Three friendly games, 3 goals scored, 4 conceded, two draws, one loss. They are just friendlies but they are also indicators. Nigerians are watching.

Advertisement