5 things We Learnt From Nigeria vs Iran – ‘Ifreke Inyang

Keshi’s selection was poor

I don’t think I have ever questioned Keshi’s team selection or his tactics, but quite frankly, today it was unimpressive. For whatever reason, Odemwingie started the game from the bench, while Ahmed Musa played the entire 90 minutes. Ramon Azeez was over-awed by the occasion and now it’s crystal clear that Sunday Mba or Nosa Igiebor should have been on the plane. Whisper this quietly, maybe Flavour – Uchebo – would have performed better with his direct and quick style.

Enyeama, saving grace

Let’s all clasp our hands in fervent prayer and thank God for the womb that carried Enyeama and the breasts that gave him suck. The Lille stopper did not have much to do, but when called upon, he can decisive and in complete control. Nigeria would have probably lost the game, if not for his world class save in the first half. A truly brilliant goalkeeper.

Yobo moves closer to his century

The Fenerbahce defender was called upon, after Godfrey Oboabona left the fray because of injury. The wailing on social media was expected. But thankfully, there was no disaster(s) and his 98th cap was an uneventful occasion.

Roll call of flops

Mikel Obi was slow and absent-minded. Onazi Ogenyi tried too hard and kept playing those hopeless passes forward. Victor Moses has not really matured as player. He kept running into nowhere. Ahmed Musa, is well, still Ahmed Musa. Emmanuel Emenike was virtually anonymous and ineffective and Ambrose Efe had a poor game.

Optimism ahead of Bosnia game?

Well, truth is, I am no longer optimistic about our chances. Iran was supposed to be the weakest team in the group and we were absolutely dreadful against them. I wish the Keshi and boys luck against Bosnia and Argentina. They will need plenty of it.

‘Ifreke Inyang tweets via @Ifreke