The job was done a long time ago; precisely on October 7, when Alex Iwobi struck that 73rd minute shot that generated the loudest cheers ever witnessed at Goodwill Akpabio international Stadium Uyo.
Meanwhile, the final game of the Group which saw Algeria snatch a dubious draw against the Super Eagles in Algers in a game that ended 1-1, gave a glimpse of what is to come in Russia.
It wasn't a rollercoaster ride, but the Eagles were on top of the game from start to finish; evident in their superior ball possession stats. It just shows how well Genort Rohr has done within a very short period.
Now it might be difficult to stop getting just a little bit carried away.
After all, it is only seven months to the World Cup and building up hopes and expectations has become a mainstay in Nigeria even before Ibrahim Galadima started calling the shots at the Glass house.
We have seen great performances, plenty course for optimism.
Much praise for our attacking players - Odion Ighalo, Alex Iwobi et al.
Great applause for the excellent midfield being anchored by Captain Mikel Obi.
Deserved encomium for our central defensive pairing of Troost Ekong and Leon Balogun.
But there are a few cracks on the wall.
Those cracks became so conspicuous when Algeria started delivering crosses into our box, late on in the final match. Goalkeeper Ezenwa who has been nothing but flawless since he came in between the sticks for the bedridden Carl Ikeme laid bare his weak points. His decision making and timing were so poor that we would have easily lost a game we had absolute control over.
At some point he was in no man's land; chasing his own shadow while the ball enjoyed the magnanimity of the force of gravity which allowed it a bit longer in the air.
Ezenwa is no doubt, good goalkeeper. But for him to remain the first choice, at least until Ikeme returns, he needs to work harder, else he risks loosing his place.
Going forward, other teams would certainly try to exploit this huge advantage, and it will cost us greatly.
Next is a friendly against Argentina. Ezenwa will definitely be on the spotlight.
The jury is already on.
Source: www.clubgist.com
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