World Cup: Nigeria still have what it takes to progress further

Nigeria played dreadful against Croatia, but it shouldn’t be the case.

With one of the largest fan-bases behind them, Nigeria failed to live up to the expectation last night.

Pound for pound, they were dominated by the Croatian side. Which is a shame to see, considering the opponent wasn’t at their best either.

It was a real opportunity for Nigeria to prove their status on the world stage, and prove they are worthy of donning the beautiful jersey.

It’s important to be fair when it comes to criticism. It was a very lackluster game, with neither side providing us with the most beautiful football.

Nigeria’s frail defense is what cost them the most, although their attack can’t take the moral high-ground either. Players like Alex Iwobi and Odion Ighalo simply weren’t up for it, but they can improve.

Still in with a chance?

With an exciting plethora of players, it’s not hard to see why there is a lot of hype surrounding the Nigerians. Victor Moses, Iwobi and Ighalo all stand out, but as a whole, Nigeria have a very strong side.

They play exciting attacking football, with the players showing vast amounts of speed and flair on the ball. It would be a real shame to see them fall at the final hurdle, after doing so well to qualify for the World Cup.

They share a group with Croatia, Argentina and Iceland, so the odds are never in their favor. However, they certainly can progress, they just need to hope results go their way.

Losing your opening match is never a good position to be in, as it leaves you playing catch up with not many games to spare.

Thankfully for the Super Eagles, Argentina didn’t too well in their opening game also. They sit just one point ahead of them, as do Iceland.

Group D is still all to play for, and it’s perhaps the group to look forward to watching. If Nigeria could’ve snatched a point, or even better, all three, then their position would have looked a lot better.

Leaders must step up

The majority of their players aren’t the most experienced, however a few do stand out as experienced leaders. It’s crucial they lift the youthful players around them, and give the fans what they want.

African fans are a real blessing to the international stage. They always come in full voice, and you can guarantee they will give their up-most to inspiring Nigeria in the following game with Iceland.

Next: Belgium vs Panama: Can Roberto Martinez lead his side to glory?

Do you think Nigeria can make it out of Group D?

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