Three Takeaways from Croatia, Nigeria Encounter

Croatia took control of Group D following a 2-0 win over Nigeria on Saturday night at the on-going FIFA World Cup in Russia. An own goal from Oghenekaro Etebo and a Luka Modric penalty sealed victory for the Croats.

The result, follows the 1-1 draw between Argentina and Iceland

Below are three takeaways from the match.

·       Lack of composure during set pieces

The Super Eagles have again shown their vulnerability when it comes to set pieces. They still do not know how to organize themselves during set pieces . Head Coach Gernot Rohr must work on this flaw against Iceland and Argentina. The defense line was clumsy and not organized against Croatia. This explains the needless foul by William Troost-Ekong against Mandzukic which led to Croatia’s penalty.

Rohr and his assistants must work on the defenders to avoid such unnecessary fouls ahead of their next matches. They must be taught how to be composed inside the 18-yard box.

·        Not clinical in goal

Super Eagles  had two clear-cut chances at goal against the Croatians throughout the duration of the match. Their five other attempts were off-target.

The strikers must learn how to take their chances before they face an Iceland team whose defence was very compact against Argentina.

·        Poor Substitution