Stoke City new signing Oghenekaro Etebo was voted among the best XI players after the first round of games at the ongoing Russia 2018 World Cup, where he is representing Nigeria.
Despite scoring an own goal in Nigeria’s 0-2 loss to Croatia, Etebo was widely regarded as the best player for Nigeria in the game with some even suggesting he should have won the man of the match award ahead of Luka Modric.
Etebo earned praises from Croatia midfield maestro Ivan Rakitic , who said the Stoke City man made him play deep in his half and in a bid to keep a check on him he couldn’t venture forward as he would have loved.
His performance has now earned him a spot in the Best XI Players for the first round of a game alongside the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Diego Costa among others selected after votings.
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In the game against Croatia, the Nigerian set a new record for take ons in a single World Cup group game and already talks about rushing his move to Stoke City from CD Feirense of Portugal has surfaced.
He spent the second half of the season on loan to LaLiga side UD Las Palmas and despite offers from other clubs in Europe, the 22 year old opt to join relegated Stoke City, a move which took many by surprise especially after his performance against Croatia.
Daniel Martins
