5 Things We Learn From The Nigeria Vs Bosnia-Herzegovina Match.
Nigeria defeated the Bosnians by a lone goal in a must win game , to have a very good chance of qualifying to the second round. It was a must win match because the statistics does not favor the Super Eagles in their battles against the Argentines. Any result other than a win would have put the Nigerian team in a precarious situation because they would have to then win their match against Argentina. Facing the likes of Messi is not a very good preposition. However, the Super Eagles were much improved and deserved their victory over the Bosnians who looked a bit jaded. There were a few lessons learnt in the match.
1. Organization Trumps Individual Brilliance.
Prelude to the match, we warned that the winner would be the team that had the better organization. The Super Eagles heeded the advice and showed great team work and organization in their game. It was vast improvement from the individualistic, uncoordinated raids seen against Iran. Gone were the numerous solo runs that went nowhere which was supplanted by quick combinational play. Had the trio of Musa,Emenike and Osaze been more ruthless with their finishing, the scores might have been higher.
2. Heat will be A Factor
Throughout the course of the tournament, the conditions have been harsh. So it was interesting to see the Super Eagles adjust their tempo according. Over the course of the tournament, the handlers have to consider the conditions, a friend and not foe. And use them against their opponents.
Throughout the course of the tournament, the conditions have been harsh. So it was interesting to see the Super Eagles adjust their tempo according. Over the course of the tournament, the handlers have to consider the conditions, a friend and not foe. And use them against their opponents.
3.Synergy In Attack
Many-a-times during the match, the strikers preferred to try for goal when there were better positioned team mates waiting for a pass.
It is understandable that scoring in the world cup is a highlight in a player's career, but it is better to win games than attain individual glory and lose. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
4. A Chain is only as Strong as its Weakest Link
Micheal Babatunde, Yobo Joseph - are pretty good players but they don't inspire a lot of confidence. Yobo's situation is more interesting because he was a very good defender at one point in his super eagles career and like fine wine, everyone felt his game would improve as his aged. Like it did for the Cannovaro's and Maldini's of this world. Sadly, this has not been the case. He remains Nigeria's weak link in defense while Micheal seems to be very confused in possession at the other end. Strengthening the weak links is imperative for continued success.
5. Notable Mentions
Mikel and Onazi, combined well, just like in their first match against Iran, although they were more adventurous this time. The work ethic and composed play exhibited by Osaze is worth mentioning. He has really matured as a player. If this attitude is kept, there is no reason why the Super Eagles will not fly high in Brazil,
Many-a-times during the match, the strikers preferred to try for goal when there were better positioned team mates waiting for a pass.
It is understandable that scoring in the world cup is a highlight in a player's career, but it is better to win games than attain individual glory and lose. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.
4. A Chain is only as Strong as its Weakest Link
Micheal Babatunde, Yobo Joseph - are pretty good players but they don't inspire a lot of confidence. Yobo's situation is more interesting because he was a very good defender at one point in his super eagles career and like fine wine, everyone felt his game would improve as his aged. Like it did for the Cannovaro's and Maldini's of this world. Sadly, this has not been the case. He remains Nigeria's weak link in defense while Micheal seems to be very confused in possession at the other end. Strengthening the weak links is imperative for continued success.
5. Notable Mentions
Mikel and Onazi, combined well, just like in their first match against Iran, although they were more adventurous this time. The work ethic and composed play exhibited by Osaze is worth mentioning. He has really matured as a player. If this attitude is kept, there is no reason why the Super Eagles will not fly high in Brazil,
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