FIFA World Cup 2018: Nigeria keeps African hopes alive
A brace of goals by Ahmed Musa helped Nigeria to overcome Iceland and keep African hopes alive of advancing to the round of 16 in the FIFA World Cup 2018 on Friday. The win, the first for Nigeria in the current tournament, and their sixth against European teams in the history of World Cup, puts them at number two position behind group leaders Croatia.
It was a brilliant combination of Omeruo and Ahmed Musa that not only rattled the solid defence of Iceland but also booted in two brilliant goals, first in the 48th minute and the second in the 75th minute. Hannes Halldorsson, who is rated high as a goalkeeper, was reduced to a mere spectator as fiery Musa packed too many surprises for his opponents.
With these two goals, Musa has taken his personal tally of international goals to 15.
Iceland was unlucky not to make use of a penalty that came its way. When the ground umpire penalised Ekong's challenge of Sigurdsson, the decision was challenged. It, however, got VAR ratification. But unfortunately, Sigurdsson leaned back little too much and kicked over the cross piece to disappoint fans of Iceland.
It was fourth of13 penalties awarded in this World Cup that failed to produce a goal.
Much was expected of Iceland after its opening game performance. But the day today belonged to Nigeria and Ahmed Musa who was at his brilliant best as he ran down with superb ball control and scored with confidence and precision.
The group D, also called group of death, is now wide open for Nigeria, Iceland and Argentine. The last round of group matches will decide who will join Croatia in prequarterfinnls from the group.
