Eagles fall to Croatia 2-0

An own goal from Oghenekaro Etebo and a penalty from Luka Modric on Saturday night secured victory for Croatia against Nigeria to take them to the top of Group D at the on-going FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Etebo turned the ball  into his own net from an Ante Rebic header  from a corner kick taken by Modric in the 32nd minute.

Modric then converted a 71st-minute penalty after Mandzukic was manhandled by William Troost-Ekonginside the box.

The penalty sent goalkeeper Francis Uzoho the opposite direction to give Croatia the three points at the Kaliningrad Arena.  Following Saturday’s victory, Croatia have now broken the jinx that has seen them never winning their opening match since the 1998 FIFA World Cup in France. While Nigeria are still searching for their opening victory which came last at the same tournament.

Croatia dominated the first half with encouraging performances from Rebic, Modric  and Kramaric in midfield.   Nigeria had a better game in the second half and looked dangerous going forward, surging towards the penalty area on a number of occasions.

Efforts from Victor Moses, Alex Iwobi and a header from Leon Balogun could not find the back of the net for Nigeria . Also a shot by Etebo in the second half from the distance was no threat for Croatia keeper Sobocic .

Uzoho who appeared to be on holiday in the opening minutes of the game made some timely saves and should not be blamed for the two goals conceded.

It was a disappointing night for the Eagles who were brimming with confidence prior to the encounter.

Croatia face Argentina in their next group game while Nigeria who are now last in group D without a point tackle Iceland who drew 1-1 with Argentina. Both matches are scheduled for June 22.