bengine:
Did anyone watch that tottenham-juventus game today..just see how the coach changed their formation from 4-3-3 to 3-5-2..the 3-5-2 effectively stifled Tottenham out of the game...this new formation made sure juventus stayed compact in every area of the field.. Tottenham would have won this game easily but thanks to a smart coach..

I do hope the Nigerian team perfect that 3-5-2 formation b4 the world cup so we can use it to surprise our opponents..we can keep our default 4231 formation and just switch up on our opponents at some point..

Watched the game I don't think Tottenham was stifled possibly limited but it was very very close right to the last second.

Juventus were lucky two off the line clearances.

But still a testament to the quality of the EPL consider which league has the overwhelming highest number of teams in the last 16.

forgiveness:


Brown Ideye. Dominic Iorfa Jnr and one of those players in Belgium pro league doing well.

ideye that doesn't know how to score? that had been struggling for game time in China... People must complain.

and I'd he gets invited some people would still complain...

COOL10:
Quick question people: Will the players be putting on the new WC jerseys for the friendlies?

yes

komekn:


U B area

I no beleeve, from a born in UK made in Warri undiluted and unadulterated Warri pikin.

Nooo I no be area ooo. I copied it. Read the preface

MetalJigsaw:
ideye that doesn't know how to score? that had been struggling for game time in China... People must complain.

and I'd he gets invited some people would still complain...

Ideye that has been playing 90 minutes every week in la liga. If Malaga get relegated which seems likely, there will be enough suitors that will try to keep him in Spain, this is how well he has been doing.

MetalJigsaw:
ideye that doesn't know how to score? that had been struggling for game time in China... People must complain.

and I'd he gets invited some people would still complain...

Ideye is in la Liga now and he has scored a goal. If not Ideye, Martins can be a quality addition.

Alampasu Unfazed Over Poland, Serbia Snub; Praises Uzoho & 'Good Brother' Ikeme




Former Nigeria youth international Dele Alampasu is unperturbed about his non inclusion in the Super Eagles team for the pre-World Cup friendlies later this month against Poland and Serbia.

The trio of Ikechukwu Ezenwa, Daniel Akpeyi and Francis Uzoho made the cut while Alampasu who has not played for his Portuguese top flight club CD Feirense, this season, was understandably overlooked.

The shot stopper spoke exclusively to allnigeriasoccer.com on Thursday as Gernot Rhor's team continue preparations for the World Cup which kicks off in 98 days time.

"I am not disappointed by the outcome of things," Alampasu begins.

"I just want to be who I am. I want to work harder than I am doing now so I can be among the next team (in possibly the friendly against England on June 2) and eventually be in the squad for Russia."

The U-17 World Cup winner in the United Arab Emirates in 2013 further spoke on the emergence of his then Golden Eaglets teammate, and second choice keeper, Francis Uzoho.

"He (Francis) is doing so good at Deportivo and he is working so hard. We all saw what he can do in the friendly against Argentina.

"There has been talk of him deserving to play in the club's first team and if he should change clubs. But I feel for now, no.
"For now we see him with the team (Eagles) so we all pray he succeeds.''

Alampasu then identifies crocked Eagles keeper Carl Ikeme as perhaps the goalkeeper with the greatest impact in his career.
The Wolverhampton Wanderers custodian was in 2017 diagnosed by the club medics to have leukemia which cruelly has put his
World Cup in jeopardy.

"Talking about the keepers who have had the greatest impact in my career, well no one really but Carl Ikeme has been a good brother to me.

''He has helped me a lot through tough times. I do admire his fighting spirit," Alampasu stressed.


**Izuchukwu Okosi


Source: http://www.allnigeriasoccer.com/read_news.php?nid=26861


Russia 2018 WC Countdown: 98 days 2 hours 16 mins to go

E clear say Martins Don almost retire SE-wise... Cos if he misses this world cup... He will just fade off as an old leg... Officially... Cos na new generation we de groom like this like this... So if Martins must have a go, it's now or never... ND since now is almost gone, can I declare never?

I am sad oyekuru may not be going to the world cup we need oyekuru type of player at the world cup

PDPGuy:


You mentioned he is a team player. That trait may be what gets him a seat on the plane to Russia, ahead of Simon Moses. The one weakness in S. Moses’s game is his inability to “play with” the team. He is way too selfish on the pitch.

I agree every coaches dream is a team player, but I'm not sure Moses simon will get affected by his inclusion, more like a striker.

tbaba1234:


Ajayi must play out of his skin to get a shirt. And he was not MVP in Egypt, was he??

Is it a formality? maybe.. Ajayi must be ready to show the coach something new in training.

It's all down to performance true! He was voted Al ally best player when they won the league. I just hope his ability is on par with the other strikers.

MetalJigsaw:
yes

. Great. Thanks. Looking forward to seeing the new GK jersey.

maidaboi:
I am sad oyekuru may not be going to the world cup we need oyekuru type of player at the world cup

. Don't worry. He'll make the final cut.

And who among them is going to sit in front of the defence?

Truidstar:

Mikel, Joel and ndidi midfield combo.

COOL10:
. Don't worry. He'll make the final cut.

Oyekwuru making the final cut is a tall dream,not that his quality is questionable but he has not been given much opportunities in the team and presently down with injury

Hope to see him making next list with Ideye and Kayode cos they are the kind of competitors that would slug it out with the regulars not Ajayi,Gabriel or Eze.

This is more reason the invitation of Joel Obi was damn good,a very quality player and any slacks from the regulars,he makes the team.

Review
------------------------------

Poland vs Nigeria
Italy vs Argentina
Mexico vs Iceland
Peru vs Croatia
-------------------------------
Nigeria vs Serbia
Peru vs Iceland
England vs Nigeria
Iceland vs Norway
Czech vs Nigeria
Croatia vs Senegal

Mickael2:
And who among them is going to sit in front of the defence?

Ndidi.

Joel is more of the box to box guy while Mikel plays further up the pitch as the play maker. The coach should be able to make it work.

KevinDein:

Ndidi.

Joel is more of the box to box guy while Mikel plays further up the pitch as the play maker. The coach should be able to make it work.

ndidi is not the type that sits in front of the defence..you will not get the best of him from there..that isnt even his role in leicester..he is the type that breaks up play and bettles in the middle

forgiveness:


Ideye is in la Liga now and he has scored a goal. If not Ideye, Martins can be a quality addition.

But he just moved to Spain recently . He has to earn his invitation. Every player in the list has impressed in their clubs or done well in their previous international matches that got Rohr's attention. Let him also work for his.

BascoVanVeli:


Ideye that has been playing 90 minutes every week in la liga. If Malaga get relegated which seems likely, there will be enough suitors that will try to keep him in Spain, this is how well he has been doing.

He has to impress the coach first, not just playing 90 minutes. Rohr is looking for players with clear and certain capabilities. Ideye hasn't done much in Spain that would ear him a call up within just a short period.

asha80:
ndidi is not the type that sits in front of the defence..you will not get the best of him from there..that isnt even his role in leicester..he is the type that breaks up play and bettles in the middle

Since you guys dontwant to agree. Let them both play box to box and neglect the DM role.

MetalJigsaw:
Since you guys dontwant to agree. Let them both play box to box and neglect the DM role.

depends on the team..some teams will roast you if you do that

Kog45:
Oyekwuru making the final cut is a tall dream,not that his quality is questionable but he has not been given much opportunities in the team and presently down with injury

Hope to see him making next list with Ideye and Kayode cos they are the kind of competitors that would slug it out with the regulars not Ajayi,Gabriel or Eze.

This is more reason the invitation of Joel Obi was damn good,a very quality player and any slacks from the regulars,he makes the team.

I agree with you but since I think Rohr hasn't been impressed by both of them. Perhaps Rohr wants them to work harder

MetalJigsaw:
I think that 3-5-2 formation is the best option for SE currently because of its dual-strikers feature, threatening wing-backs and 5-man defence when the opposition is on attack.

Well depending on the opposition, most of our players are used to the 4-2-3-1 since we used it a lot during the qualifiers...hopefully they can master that 3-5-2 formation before the world cup tournament..you know mastering formation takes time for a national team...

If we can at least master these 2 formations, it would be difficult for any team to beat us...I know Rohr said we need to master 3 formations but I doubt the team has time to master 3 formations and be efficient with it..

One thing I know for sure, if we play against a top quality side that uses wing play alot, we can effectively stifle the opposition with our 3-5-2 formation.
If the opposition plays a lot from the middle like croatia, I think a compact 4-5-1 could limit their play..

It seems I already listed 3 formations already Ahahaha..I didn't even include our traditional 4-3-3 and 4-4-2 most of our players are used to..I hope the coach uses the best formation based on the opposition..

maidaboi:
I am sad oyekuru may not be going to the world cup we need oyekuru type of player at the world cup

but he's currently injured. I believe he would have been invited if not.

asha80:
depends on the team..some teams will roast you if you do that

i was just pulling your legs

HOW THEY’RE FARING: Scorecards Of 28 Super Eagles Stars For Poland, Serbia Friendlies
completesportsnigeria.com Mar 8, 2018 11:27 AM
HOW THEY’RE FARING: Scorecards Of 28 Super Eagles Stars For Poland, Serbia Friendlies
Ahead of the 2018 World Cup friendly matches with Poland and Serbia Completesportsnigeria.com’s JOHNNY EDWARD presents the scorecards of the Super Eagles players invited by Gernot Rohr for the games…

Ikechukwu Ezenwa (Enyimba FC)

Ikechukwu Ezenwa grabbed his chance with both hands when Daniel Akpeyi sustained an injury in training. In his first real opportunity with the Super Eagles, Ezenwa kept a clean sheet against Cameroon in Uyo. Many expect the place No.1 spot to be a straight fight between him and Uzoho who is currently been monitored by Enrico Pionetti, Gernot Rohr’s goalkeeper trainer.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: Nil
Goals conceded: Nil
Clean sheets: Nil

Daniel Akpeyi (Chippa United, South Africa)

Unarguably, Nigeria’s most experienced goalkeeper in the squad is Daniel Akpeyi but a poor outing against South Africa last year has seen him drop down in the pecking order. He needs to regain the trust of the coaching crew if he is to reclaim his place as Ikechukwu Ezenwa and Francis Uzoho are reportedly ahead of him.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 18
Goals conceded: 12
Clean sheets: 8

DEFENDERS:

Abdullahi Shehu (Anthorsis Famagusta/ Bursaspor FC, Turkey):

Shehu has been decent at right-back for Nigeria and made the position his but he will face a stiff challenge from Tyronne Ebuehi who has been in top form as well for Ado Den Haag.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 25
Assists: 2
Goals scored: 1

Tyronne Ebuehi (Ado Den Haag, The Netherlands)

Fast-rising right-back, Tyronne Ebuehi showed many Nigerians what they had been missing when he dazzled on his Super Eagles debut against Argentina in their 4-2 win over Argentina.

He was also solid for Ado Den Haag in the recent 1-1 draw against Ajax Amsterdam where he had to stop the highly-rated Justin Kluivert.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 26
Assists: 2
Goals scored: None

Ola Aina (Hull City, England)
Since making his debut against Zambia, Aina has grown in confidence in the team. Aina is Nigeria’s most consistent defender in Europe this season having played the most games for his English Championship side Hull City.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 35
Assists: 2
Goals scored: 1

Elderson Echiejile (Cercle Brugge KSV, Belgium)

Echiejile is the Super Eagles’ most experienced and oldest defender. He struggled for game time at Turkish side Sivasspor before he moved to Cercle Brugge KSV in the Belgian second division where he has featured in three of their last five games. Echiejile has Ola Aina and Brian Idowu to battle with for the left-back role.

2017/18 stats:
Total games played: 12
Assists: 1
Goals scored: None.

Brian Idowu (Amkar Perm, Russia)
Brian Idowu capped his impressive debut performance for the Super Eagles in their 4-2 win over Argentina in a friendly in November, 2017 with a brilliant goal. More good outings against Poland and Serbia could boost his chances of making the final cut for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

2017/18 stats:
Total games played: 21
Assist: Nil
Goals scored: 1

Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes FC, France)

Chidozie Awaziem struggled in his first game for Super Eagles but redeemed himself against Argentina where he played on the right side of a 3-5-2 formation in his second game. The Super Eagles won the game 4-2. The 21-year-old can play in any position in defence which is an asset for the team.

2017/18 stats:
Total games played: 19
Assist: None
Goals scored: 1

William Troost-Ekong (Bursaspor FC, Turkey)

Another sure bet for the World Cup in Russia is William Troost-Ekong. The centre-back and Wilfred Ndidi are the two players who featured in all of Nigeria’s 2018 World Cup qualifiers. Ekong ‘s partnership with Leon Balogun which has been dubbed the ‘oyinbo wall’ has flourished well under Gernot Rohr.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 26
Assists: None
Goals scored: 2


Leon Balogun of Nigeria during the Russia 2018 World Cup Qualifier match between Nigeria vs Algeria on November, 12th 2016 at Godswill Akpabio Stadium©Kabiru Abubakar//Backpagepix
Leon Balogun (FSV Mainz 05, Germany)

Leon Balogun is not having the best of seasons in the German Bundesliga with FSV Mainz, but his quality has not been in doubt. Injuries and suspensions have restricted his playing time at club level to just 12 appearances.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 12
Assist: None
Goals scored: None

Kenneth Omeruo (Kasimpasa FC, Turkey):
Kenneth Omeruo has regained the trust of the Super Eagles handlers with his consistent play for his Turkish club Kasimpasa but it remains to be seen if he can win a place in the starting line-up where William Troost Ekong and Leon Balogun are first choice.

2017/18 stat:
Total games played: 20
Assist: None
Goals scored: 1

Stephen Eze (Lokomotiv Plovdiv, Bulgaria)

The towering Ear earned his debut invitation to the Super Eagles on the back of his performance at the African Nations Championship where he was named in the team of the tournament. His performance for the Home Eagles also earned him a deal with Bulgarian club Lokomotiv Plovdiv. In his third game at the club he was named in the team of the week.

2017/18 stat
Total games played: 3
Assists: Nil
Goals scored: Nil

MIDFIELDERS

Mikel Obi (Tianjin Teda, China)

Mikel, the captain of the Super Eagles, is an influential figure under Gernot Rohr. With Mikel’s vast experience in the game, the 30-year-old will be looked upon for inspiration when the going gets tough.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 1
Assist: None
Goals scored: None

Ogenyi Onazi (Trabzonspor FC, Turkey)

Onazi makes a return to the team after missing the last two games against Algeria and Argentina. Onazi’s biggest asset of anticipating danger during match situations has earned him a regular place in the team’s midfield.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 17
Assists: 2
Goals scored: 2

Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England)

Wilfred Ndidi is one of the most consistent players for club and country in the last one year. Ndidi is the Super Eagles reliable anchor in midfield and he is expected to replicate that same form when Nigeria take on Poland and Serbia.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 33
Assists: 4
Goals scored: 1

Oghenekaro Etebo (Feriense/Las Palmas, Spain)

Etebo has got tongues wagging with his brilliant performance for struggling Las Palmas in the Spanish LaLiga Santander. The midfielder continued from where he left off with Portuguese side Feriense where he was their most influential player, scoring four goals.

2017/18 stat
Total games played: 26
Assists: 2
Goals scored: 4

John Ogu (Hapoel Be’er Sheva, Israel)

The 29-year-old central midfielder can play various roles and he is probably very effective in terms of joining up with the team in attacks. He was a great squad player during the 2018 World Cup qualifiers and has stepped up well each time he was called in to shore up the middle.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 29
Assists: None
Goals scored: 2

Uche Agbo (Standard Liege, Belgium)

Uche Agbo has been constantly called up by Gernot Rohr to the senior national team for over a year now but has not been handed a chance to feature. He has been a top performer for his Belgian club Standard Liege but that seems not to have swayed Rohr in any way. The games against Poland and Serbia could be his chance to prove he is not just training material in the national team.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 31
Assists: 3
Goals scored: 1

Joel Obi (Torino FC, Italy)

The Torino midfielder makes a return back to the Super Eagles after two years out due to persistent injuries. In a midfield department where the Super Eagles are spoilt for choice, the 27- year-old must offer more than what the likes of John Ogu, Wilfred Ndidi, Mikel Obi, Ogenyi Onazi and Oghenekaro Etebo can to break into the main team.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 21
Assists: 2
Goals scored: 5

FORWARDS

Ahmed Musa (Leicester City/CSKA Moscow, Russia)

After failing to get a game for Leicester City in the first half of the season, Ahmed Musa is back in reckoning playing regularly for CSKA Moscow whom he joined on a six-month loan deal. A consistent run of games coupled with goals could earn him another World Cup appearance in Russia.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 10
Assists: 3
Goals scored: 2

Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester City, England)

Iheanacho is Nigeria’s most prolific player in the past one year, scoring four goals in seven games for the Super Eagles. His performance in Nigeria’s 4-2 wins over Argentina shows how dynamic the 21-year-old is and how well he has evolved.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 22
Assists: 2
Goals scored: 6

mosessimon-fifaworldcup-supereagles
Moses Simon in action for the Super Eagles against Zambia in Uyo – Completesportsnigeria.com
Moses Simon (KAA Gent, Belgium)

Simon made a return from a knee ligament injury that kept him out of action for two months last Sunday in Gent’s 3-2 loss to KV Oostende. Simon, a tricky winger, was also instrumental in Nigeria 2018 World Cup qualification. He provides width and pace on the flanks for the team.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 23
Assist: 2
Goals scored: 5

Victor Moses (Chelsea FC, England)

One of the biggest players in the team is Victor Moses. The Chelsea star is also a sure bet for the World Cup barring any serious injury.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 27
Assists: 2
Goals scored: 3

Odion Ighalo (Changchun Yatai, China)

Expected to be Nigeria’s first choice striker to the 2018 World Cup in Russia, but Odion Ighalo needs to get to be consistent for his team Changchun Yatai this new season in the Chinese Super League to keep his place. He scored 15 goals in 27 league games for his club to emerge as the eight leading scorer in the CSL last season.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 1
Assists: None
Goals scored: None

Alex Iwobi (Arsenal FC, England)

Iwobi has been decent for Arsenal this season despite being on a two-month goal drought. The 21-year-old has managed to feature for Arsenal this season despite the big signings made by Arsene Wenger during the transfer windows.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 29
Assists: 5
Goals scored: 2



Junior Ajayi (Al Ahly, Egypt)

Junior Ajayi’s reputation has continued to soar in the Egyptian League with reigning champions Al Ahly. Currently in his second season with the club, Ajayi caught the eye of the Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr after staring for the Egyptian giants in the CAF Champions League and Egyptian League. He also made the Confederation of African Football’s best XI at the Aiteo CAF Awards in January.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 26
Assists: 9
Goals scored: 8

Gabriel Okechukwu (Akwa United)

Okechukwu Gabriel is one of the surprise inclusions in the squad by Gernot Rohr. Gabriel starred for the Home Eagles at the West African Football Union championship in Ghana and the African Nations Championship in Morocco where he scored twice in both tournaments. The Akwa United striker must prove his class among the established stars to be considered for the final squad for the Mundial.

2017/18 stats
Total games played: 3
Assists: 2
Goals scored: Nil.


https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/theyre-faring-scorecards-28-super-eagles-stars-poland-serbia-friendlies/amp/

MetalJigsaw:
i was just pulling your legs

lol


just re-watching highlights of our qualifiers and the friendly against argentina on youtube..if there is one strong aspect of the present day eagles(apart from some others) it is that their counter attacks are more deadlier that eagles of the past.

Kog45:
Oyekwuru making the final cut is a tall dream,not that his quality is questionable but he has not been given much opportunities in the team and presently down with injury

Hope to see him making next list with Ideye and Kayode cos they are the kind of competitors that would slug it out with the regulars not Ajayi,Gabriel or Eze.

This is more reason the invitation of Joel Obi was damn good,a very quality player and any slacks from the regulars,he makes the team.

. Mehn,the excitement of the vast number of very talented players we now have goes all the way to my bones. . I don't think I've ever been this excited about a SE team before. Joel Obi's return is a dream come true for me. U're quite right about Onyekwuru's slim chances but I still believe he'll make it. That move he made against Algeria just made me fall in love with his style of play. I was so happy for Ideye's transfer but it seems like Malaga will get relegated which will require another move except he wants to stay.

It's now so clear that our bench will be filled with hungry talented players . Now that's a dream team. .

komekn:


Watched the game I don't think Tottenham was stifled possibly limited but it was very very close right to the last second.

Juventus were lucky two off the line clearances.

But still a testament to the quality of the EPL consider which league has the overwhelming highest number of teams in the last 16.

In that game, Tottenham dominated Juventus until around the 60min mark when asamoah came in for juventus to make it a 3-5-2 formation..initially both teams where using 433 formation..Tottenham didn't adapt well to the change in formation and pretty much lost the midfield. Juventus started using the wingbacks a lot when attacking which means there was constantly an overload due to the wingbacks..this created space for juventus to do the damage...

If u watch that game well, there was no way juventus would have won that game, Tottenham was just stronger in terms of team play..their coach failed to adapt to the new formation on time and they paid for it dearly..they conceeded 2goals in 5mins after juventus made this change..

Anyone that wants to learn impact of a formation change on a team should watch the first 30mins of that second half..

KevinDein:

Ndidi.

Joel is more of the box to box guy while Mikel plays further up the pitch as the play maker. The coach should be able to make it work.

Ndidi will sit in front of the defence? Recipe for disaster

HOW THEY’RE FARING: Scorecards Of 28 Super Eagles Stars For Poland, Serbia Friendlies

Ahead of the 2018 World Cup friendly matches with Poland and Serbia Completesportsnigeria.com’s JOHNNY EDWARD presents the scorecards of the Super Eagles players invited by Gernot Rohr for the games…

GOALKEEPERS:

Francis Uzoho (Deportivo La Coruna, Spain)
Francis Uzoho was a surprise inclusion in the Super Eagles squad for the friendly against Argentina last November but he took his chance with a solid outing against the global heavyweights. The 19-year-old has been in decent for Deportivo Fabril (Deportivo’s B team) in the Spanish third tier.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 16
Goals conceded: 11
Clean sheets: 10

Ikechukwu Ezenwa (Enyimba FC)
Ikechukwu Ezenwa grabbed his chance with both hands when Daniel Akpeyi sustained an injury in training. In his first real opportunity with the Super Eagles, Ezenwa kept a clean sheet against Cameroon in Uyo. Many expect the place No.1 spot to be a straight fight between him and Uzoho who is currently been monitored by Enrico Pionetti, Gernot Rohr’s goalkeeper trainer.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: Nil
Goals conceded: Nil
Clean sheets: Nil

Daniel Akpeyi (Chippa United, South Africa)
Unarguably, Nigeria’s most experienced goalkeeper in the squad is Daniel Akpeyi but a poor outing against South Africa last year has seen him drop down in the pecking order. He needs to regain the trust of the coaching crew if he is to reclaim his place as Ikechukwu Ezenwa and Francis Uzoho are reportedly ahead of him.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 18
Goals conceded: 12
Clean sheets: 8

DEFENDERS:

Abdullahi Shehu (Anthorsis Famagusta/ Bursaspor FC, Turkey):
Shehu has been decent at right-back for Nigeria and made the position his but he will face a stiff challenge from Tyronne Ebuehi who has been in top form as well for Ado Den Haag.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 25
Assists: 2
Goals scored: 1

Tyronne Ebuehi (Ado Den Haag, The Netherlands)
Fast-rising right-back, Tyronne Ebuehi showed many Nigerians what they had been missing when he dazzled on his Super Eagles debut against Argentina in their 4-2 win over Argentina.
He was also solid for Ado Den Haag in the recent 1-1 draw against Ajax Amsterdam where he had to stop the highly-rated Justin Kluivert.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 26
Assists: 2
Goals scored: None

Ola Aina (Hull City, England)
Since making his debut against Zambia, Aina has grown in confidence in the team. Aina is Nigeria’s most consistent defender in Europe this season having played the most games for his English Championship side Hull City.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 35
Assists: 2
Goals scored: 1

Elderson Echiejile (Cercle Brugge KSV, Belgium)
Echiejile is the Super Eagles’ most experienced and oldest defender. He struggled for game time at Turkish side Sivasspor before he moved to Cercle Brugge KSV in the Belgian second division where he has featured in three of their last five games. Echiejile has Ola Aina and Brian Idowu to battle with for the left-back role.
2017/18 stats:
Total games played: 12
Assists: 1
Goals scored: None.

Brian Idowu (Amkar Perm, Russia)
Brian Idowu capped his impressive debut performance for the Super Eagles in their 4-2 win over Argentina in a friendly in November, 2017 with a brilliant goal. More good outings against Poland and Serbia could boost his chances of making the final cut for the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
2017/18 stats:
Total games played: 21
Assist: Nil
Goals scored: 1

Chidozie Awaziem (Nantes FC, France)
Chidozie Awaziem struggled in his first game for Super Eagles but redeemed himself against Argentina where he played on the right side of a 3-5-2 formation in his second game. The Super Eagles won the game 4-2. The 21-year-old can play in any position in defence which is an asset for the team.
2017/18 stats:
Total games played: 19
Assist: None
Goals scored: 1

William Troost-Ekong (Bursaspor FC, Turkey)
Another sure bet for the World Cup in Russia is William Troost-Ekong. The centre-back and Wilfred Ndidi are the two players who featured in all of Nigeria’s 2018 World Cup qualifiers. Ekong ‘s partnership with Leon Balogun which has been dubbed the ‘oyinbo wall’ has flourished well under Gernot Rohr.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 26
Assists: None
Goals scored: 2

Leon Balogun of Nigeria during the Russia 2018 World Cup Qualifier match between Nigeria vs Algeria on November, 12th 2016 at Godswill Akpabio Stadium©Kabiru Abubakar//Backpagepix
Leon Balogun (FSV Mainz 05, Germany)
Leon Balogun is not having the best of seasons in the German Bundesliga with FSV Mainz, but his quality has not been in doubt. Injuries and suspensions have restricted his playing time at club level to just 12 appearances.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 12
Assist: None
Goals scored: None

Kenneth Omeruo (Kasimpasa FC, Turkey):
Kenneth Omeruo has regained the trust of the Super Eagles handlers with his consistent play for his Turkish club Kasimpasa but it remains to be seen if he can win a place in the starting line-up where William Troost Ekong and Leon Balogun are first choice.
2017/18 stat:
Total games played: 20
Assist: None
Goals scored: 1

Stephen Eze (Lokomotiv Plovdiv, Bulgaria)
The towering Ear earned his debut invitation to the Super Eagles on the back of his performance at the African Nations Championship where he was named in the team of the tournament. His performance for the Home Eagles also earned him a deal with Bulgarian club Lokomotiv Plovdiv. In his third game at the club he was named in the team of the week.
2017/18 stat
Total games played: 3
Assists: Nil
Goals scored: Nil

MIDFIELDERS

Mikel Obi (Tianjin Teda, China)
Mikel, the captain of the Super Eagles, is an influential figure under Gernot Rohr. With Mikel’s vast experience in the game, the 30-year-old will be looked upon for inspiration when the going gets tough.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 1
Assist: None
Goals scored: None

Ogenyi Onazi (Trabzonspor FC, Turkey)
Onazi makes a return to the team after missing the last two games against Algeria and Argentina. Onazi’s biggest asset of anticipating danger during match situations has earned him a regular place in the team’s midfield.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 17
Assists: 2
Goals scored: 2

Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City, England)
Wilfred Ndidi is one of the most consistent players for club and country in the last one year. Ndidi is the Super Eagles reliable anchor in midfield and he is expected to replicate that same form when Nigeria take on Poland and Serbia.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 33
Assists: 4
Goals scored: 1

Oghenekaro Etebo (Feriense/Las Palmas, Spain)
Etebo has got tongues wagging with his brilliant performance for struggling Las Palmas in the Spanish LaLiga Santander. The midfielder continued from where he left off with Portuguese side Feriense where he was their most influential player, scoring four goals.
2017/18 stat
Total games played: 26
Assists: 2
Goals scored: 4

John Ogu (Hapoel Be’er Sheva, Israel)
The 29-year-old central midfielder can play various roles and he is probably very effective in terms of joining up with the team in attacks. He was a great squad player during the 2018 World Cup qualifiers and has stepped up well each time he was called in to shore up the middle.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 29
Assists: None
Goals scored: 2

Uche Agbo (Standard Liege, Belgium)
Uche Agbo has been constantly called up by Gernot Rohr to the senior national team for over a year now but has not been handed a chance to feature. He has been a top performer for his Belgian club Standard Liege but that seems not to have swayed Rohr in any way. The games against Poland and Serbia could be his chance to prove he is not just training material in the national team.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 31
Assists: 3
Goals scored: 1

Joel Obi (Torino FC, Italy)
The Torino midfielder makes a return back to the Super Eagles after two years out due to persistent injuries. In a midfield department where the Super Eagles are spoilt for choice, the 27- year-old must offer more than what the likes of John Ogu, Wilfred Ndidi, Mikel Obi, Ogenyi Onazi and Oghenekaro Etebo can to break into the main team.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 21
Assists: 2
Goals scored: 5

FORWARDS

Ahmed Musa (Leicester City/CSKA Moscow, Russia)
After failing to get a game for Leicester City in the first half of the season, Ahmed Musa is back in reckoning playing regularly for CSKA Moscow whom he joined on a six-month loan deal. A consistent run of games coupled with goals could earn him another World Cup appearance in Russia.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 10
Assists: 3
Goals scored: 2

Kelechi Iheanacho (Leicester City, England)
Iheanacho is Nigeria’s most prolific player in the past one year, scoring four goals in seven games for the Super Eagles. His performance in Nigeria’s 4-2 wins over Argentina shows how dynamic the 21-year-old is and how well he has evolved.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 22
Assists: 2
Goals scored: 6

Moses Simon in action for the Super Eagles against Zambia in Uyo – Completesportsnigeria.com
Moses Simon (KAA Gent, Belgium)
Simon made a return from a knee ligament injury that kept him out of action for two months last Sunday in Gent’s 3-2 loss to KV Oostende. Simon, a tricky winger, was also instrumental in Nigeria 2018 World Cup qualification. He provides width and pace on the flanks for the team.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 23
Assist: 2
Goals scored: 5

Victor Moses (Chelsea FC, England)
One of the biggest players in the team is Victor Moses. The Chelsea star is also a sure bet for the World Cup barring any serious injury.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 27
Assists: 2
Goals scored: 3

Odion Ighalo (Changchun Yatai, China)
Expected to be Nigeria’s first choice striker to the 2018 World Cup in Russia, but Odion Ighalo needs to get to be consistent for his team Changchun Yatai this new season in the Chinese Super League to keep his place. He scored 15 goals in 27 league games for his club to emerge as the eight leading scorer in the CSL last season.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 1
Assists: None
Goals scored: None

Alex Iwobi (Arsenal FC, England)
Iwobi has been decent for Arsenal this season despite being on a two-month goal drought. The 21-year-old has managed to feature for Arsenal this season despite the big signings made by Arsene Wenger during the transfer windows.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 29
Assists: 5
Goals scored: 2

Junior Ajayi (Al Ahly, Egypt)
Junior Ajayi’s reputation has continued to soar in the Egyptian League with reigning champions Al Ahly. Currently in his second season with the club, Ajayi caught the eye of the Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr after staring for the Egyptian giants in the CAF Champions League and Egyptian League. He also made the Confederation of African Football’s best XI at the Aiteo CAF Awards in January.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 26
Assists: 9
Goals scored: 8

Gabriel Okechukwu (Akwa United)
Okechukwu Gabriel is one of the surprise inclusions in the squad by Gernot Rohr. Gabriel starred for the Home Eagles at the West African Football Union championship in Ghana and the African Nations Championship in Morocco where he scored twice in both tournaments. The Akwa United striker must prove his class among the established stars to be considered for the final squad for the Mundial.
2017/18 stats
Total games played: 3
Assists: 2
Goals scored: Nil.



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