The senior national team of Nigeria got their first win in the world cup qualifiers with a commanding 2-0 win over Rwanda in Kigali courtesy of a first half brace from Victor Osimhen.
Osimhen stabbed home a well delivered free kick from Ademola Lookman at the far post in the 11th minute before beating his man to the ball in the final minute of time added on before the half time break, and dinking the ball past the rushing goalkeeper.
We pick five things we noticed during the course of the game, which has put Nigeria in a good position ahead of Tuesday’s game in Uyo against Zimbabwe.
Chelle’s Tactical Masterclass – The coach took Rwanda by surprise by setting his team in a 4-1-3-2 formation. The formation left Rwanda confused and in the second half after they adjusted their shape and formation. He adjusted to a 4-3-3 and immediately the team gained control.
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Moses Simon Behind Osimhen – While many expected Ademola Lookman to be the one playing behind the main striker in Victor Osimhen, it was Moses Simon who took up that position with Lookman playing as part of a the diamond three alongside Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze.
High Pressing – One of the major change in the team was the high press which frustrated Rwanda. Moses Simon, Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen won possession higher up the pitch easing the pressure on the defence.
Set Piece Threat – All their free kicks and corner kicks were well worked and it showed how much effort they put at it in training. Ademola Lookman almost claimed a hattrick of assists from set pieces but only Victor Osimhen was clinical from the three big chances he created from dead balls.
Good Ball Usage – The Super Eagles trained very well with the ball before yesterday’s game and it showed in the game proper with the way they kept possession, while trying to see off the game. It was a controlled performance which made Rwanda to run out of ideas even when in possession.
Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman
