There is a mixture of anticipation and trepidation on me as Nigeria go into this tournament. A young team that are VASTLY SUPERIOR to those jokers of four years ago will be great to witness, but the inexperience will definitely be a worrying factor...especially against Argentina and Dzeko/Pjanic...as well as being mature and professional enough to deal with Iran.
Mexico have been totally refurbished and this will NOT be the same team that Nigeria played so many months ago. This is a far more deadly team, that have found their mojo again and will be one of the most exciting teams to watch at the World Cup this summer.
For Keshi, it really is about getting the striker to SUPPORT Emenike rather than to back him up. Nigeria really must do with TWO strikers and must also perfect their playing style that has worked wonders for them. Yes, it's good to have different strategies and formations...but all that is needed are little tweaks to the main pie that Keshi has cooked up...and that pie currently holds Africa's top prize.
What I want to see is a better defence...that is far more reliable and organized. Mexico had a field day against the Eagles before, and this is a BETTER team...so there will be even more concentration needed on that back four.
The midfield is an area that Nigeria are strongest. IDEYI BROWN MUST STAY AND REMAIN IN THAT MIDFIELD, I AM BEGGING YOU. And my eyes will be on Onazi who will be Nigeria's little diamond and I believe is one of the best players in that team...and plays a VERY important role.
It seems that if Ezekiel Imoh is fresh and ready to go, without any injuries, then he can try and stake that claim that he is that brethren than can TAKE OVER Dike. Keshi knows a striker is needed and will be KEY to Nigeria going far in this tournament. So this is the perfect opportunity to test out various strikers and see how well they can either link up with Emenike or play on their own. I would personally prefer two strikers but that is the beauty of these friendlies. Keshi can try out both systems and perfect them, which makes Nigeria more malleable when facing different situations that WILL come up at the World Cup.
HH
