Pundit's banks on Arsenal and other predictions

Once again, I called two score lines from this past weekend games correctly. The game involving Chelsea and Leicester City at Stamford Bridge and the game involving Arsenal and Fulham at the Emirates. How about that!

Now, I am back to give my predictions on the midweek games. So find out which team to put your money on to take all three points in this round of matches...

Fulham vs Brighton

This is going to be a very interesting match on Tuesday evening. Fulham tasted their first defeat against Arsenal in the weekend, while Brighton are still undefeated. I didn't think Brighton will be able to win against Leeds in the weekend and they won so I backing them to get something from this clash if they can keep on the momentum. Fulham showed against Arsenal that they can be a very dangerous side to play against and I think they too will try to get something from this clash. That's why I am going to go for an entertaining draw here.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Fulham 1-1 Brighton

Crystal Palace vs Brentford

Everyone thought Crystal Palace were going to shock Manchester City at the Etihad when they raced to a 2-0 lead in the game, only for City to comeback and win 4-2. I thought they missed the services of Wilfred Zaha in the game and could have harmed Manchester City more if the Ivorian international was on the field. I don't know the severity of his injury, but if he misses this game also I think Brentford will fancy their chances. I am going to bank on this game to end in a draw as I really can't find a winner.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Crystal Palace 0-0 Brentford

Southampton vs Chelsea

If Chelsea can win against Leicester with ten men, I think they should be able to win here convincingly on Tuesday evening. Southampton weren't really bad against Manchester United in the weekend but they still lost the game. They lack a winning mentality and I see them losing this one too.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Southampton 0-1 Chelsea

Leeds United vs Everton

I really fancied Leeds United to get something out of their weekend clash against Brighton and they lost the game 1-0. I think they will be looking to bounce back here and against a very poor Everton side. I really can't see why they can't come out of the game with all three points. That means the pressure will start to mount on Frank Lampard with another underwhelming performance here.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Leeds United 1-0 Everton

Manchester City vs Nottingham Forest

I feel sorry for Nottingham Forest because they lost at home at the weekend to Tottenham and they are going to lose this one also at the Etihad. I expected Nottingham Forest to at least get a point against Spurs but they disappointed. I don't think this is going to be an easy ride for Manchester City, but they will get the win.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Manchester City 2-0 Nottingham Forest

Arsenal vs Aston Villa

I see a comprehensive Arsenal win here. Aston Villa have been very poor so far this season. And it's only a matter of time before Aston Villa fans will begin to call for the head of head coach Steven Gerrard. 

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Arsenal 2-0 Aston Villa

Bournemouth vs Wolves

After suffering a heavy hammering at the hands of Liverpool last weekend, Bournemouth will be looking to react in front of their home fans here. Meanwhile, Wolves will be looking to compound the home team's woes. I think this will end in a draw but if this game eventually produces a winner, then it will be Wolves.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Bournemouth 1-1 Wolves

West Ham vs Tottenham

This should be a very interesting match as it's also a derby. West Ham finally got their first win of the season in the weekend against Aston Villa and they will surely be looking to build on that result. I can guarantee that Tottenham won't lose this game as they will look to continue their unbeaten streak here but I can't guarantee that they will win here so I am going to bank on this game to end in a draw.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: West Ham 1-1 Tottenham

Liverpool vs Newcastle

After hammering Bournemouth 9-0 at the weekend, Liverpool will be looking to consolidate on that result and get another win here in front of their home fans. Newcastle have shown so far that they are a very dangerous side to play against so I think they will make things difficult for Liverpool here. But I expect Liverpool to grind out a win here.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Liverpool 1-0 Newcastle

Leicester City vs Manchester United

Having won their last two games, Manchester United will be looking to extend the run here. I thought Leicester were embarrassing in the weekend. Chelsea lost a man to a red card very early in the game when it was still nil-nil yet Leicester couldn't capitalize. I think if Manchester United turn up here they will win. Leicester are a very poor side this season, without a single win so far. I think Manchester United will win this. I just can't see Leicester stopping Erik Ten Hag's resurgent men

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Leicester 0-1 Manchester United

D Pundit's EPL Correct Score Tips

Last weekend, I got five match outcomes correctly, including the score-line of the game involving Manchester United and Liverpool at Old Trafford. So, if you are missing out on these juicy tips, make a change now.

Which team looks good to come out on top this weekend? Read on to find out...

Southampton vs Manchester United

Manchester United got their first three points against Liverpool last weekend and to be sincere, it was easy to predict. Erik Ten Hag's men weren't going to display another lackluster performance after losing scandalously to Brentford 4-0 in the previous weekend. So, it was easy to predict that they were going to step up their performance against Jurgen Klopp's side. I am also going to predict another win for them here as I expect them to build on the momentum from the win against Liverpool.

Southampton also won last weekend at Leicester but they will struggle against an in-form Manchester United side. So I am backing the Red Devils for a win here.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Southampton 0-2 Manchester United

Liverpool vs Bournemouth

I think Liverpool will get their first win of the season here. Any result other than a win will be considered shocking looking at the quality of opponent they are facing. Bournemouth are no pushovers but they really lack the quality to excel in the topflight. I know Liverpool are also struggling at the moment, but if they really want to turn their season around, then they should be winning here.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Liverpool 2-0 Bournemouth

Manchester City vs Crystal Palace

I know many people will be predicting an easy ride for Manchester City here but I beg to differ. Crystal Palace are a very technical side under Patrick Vieira and I think they will cause Manchester City lots of trouble here. But Manchester City have got tremendous quality in their ranks so I expect them to find a way to come out on top here even though I expect it to be tough for Pep Guardiola's men.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Manchester City 2-1 Crystal Palace

Chelsea vs Leicester

Chelsea were really humbled at Leeds last weekend but I think their manager will be asking for a reaction here. I think they will struggle to beat Leicester but I still am confident they will prevail here. Leicester are really struggling this season and I expect them to lose again here on Saturday as I just can't see them getting anything from a Chelsea side that will be rejuvenated after losing horrendously last weekend.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Chelsea 2-1 Leicester City

Brentford vs Everton

Brentford lost at Fulham last weekend but they are really a very quality team under Thomas Frank. They showed everyone the stuff they are made of when they walloped Manchester United 4-0 the other day. I think they will win here against a very poor Everton side. Everton are really struggling and I think they will find it hard to get anything here against a very resolute Brentford side.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Brentford 1-0 Everton

Brighton vs Leeds United

In my opinion, this is the biggest match of the weekend because of the quality of these two sides. Both managers are quality coaches who love to see their team play on the front foot. I will really love to watch this game because it promises to be very entertaining. I really can't find a winner here as these two sides have been undeafed so far this season. So I am just going to back this game to end in a very entertaining draw.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Brighton 2-2 Leeds United

Arsenal vs Fulham

Arsenal have been flying this season but this game should really test their resolve.

Fulham have shown so far that they are a team to beat as they are currently undeafed. I expect Arsenal to really work hard for their win here because Fulham are going to push them hard. But I going to predict a slim win here for the Gunners as they are playing on their turf in front of their fans.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Arsenal 2-1 Fulham

Aston Villa vs West Ham

West Ham have lost all their games so far in this campaign but I think they will pick up their first point here. Aston Villa are also struggling this season and I really see this game ending in a draw.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Aston Villa 1-1 West Ham

Wolves vs Newcastle

I thought Newcastle were very impressive against Manchester City last weekend. They were on course to win that game if not for a moment of brilliance from Pep Guardiola's men. I think if they keep up that kind of performance here they will win. Wolves are no pushovers but they have been poor this season as they are still without a win. I think they will really struggle against Newcastle here, so I will just stick with a Newcastle win.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Wolves 0-1 Newcastle

Nottingham Forest vs Tottenham

Tottenham should win this game if they turn up and show their quality. But I think they have not been very convincing with their performance so far albeit they are winning. I think they will struggle to win here against a very resolute Nottingham Forest side. I really see this game ending in a draw. But if the game goes on to produce a winner then it should be Tottenham.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Nottingham Forest 0-0 Tottenham

D’Pundit Picks for EPL MatchDay 1

 

Football is back! The wait is finally over. I will be dishing out weekly predictions on all the matches to be played in the EPL this season. So, join me on the ride. 

Which teams will win their first EPL games this season? Read up my predictions to find out

Crystal Palace vs Arsenal

Crystal Palace took four points from this fixture over two legs last season and they will be raring to continue in that vein of form this season.

Crystal Palace under Patrick Vieira have been very impressive and I see them finishing well again this season. However, I expect Mikel Arteta's men to give us the viewers a real spectacle on Friday night. Judging from Arsenal's pre-season performance, they should impress this season but I still can't put my money on them finishing in the top four this season.

I will bank on the game to end in a draw as I am struggling to find a winner here.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Crystal Palace 1-1 Arsenal

Fulham vs Liverpool

Liverpool layed down a marker with their Community Shield triumph over Manchester City and I am going to back them to win the league this season.

Fulham on their part will struggle again playing topflight football and they will also struggle to withstand Jurgen Klopp's men on Saturday. So it's a comfortable Liverpool win for me. infact, I will be surprised if Fulham are still in the game at halftime.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Fulham 0-3 Liverpool

Tottenham vs Southampton

Tottenham have really done well on the transfer market so far, but it remains to be seen if they will replicate their impressive transfer dealings on the field of play.

Southampton were lucky not to be relegated last season and I think they will still struggle this season. 

I think Tottenham will have too much for Ralph Hasenhüttl's men.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Tottenham 2-0 Southampton

Leeds United vs Wolves

This two sides are at their very best a midtable team. But I think this game will be entertaining on Saturday with both teams looking to lay down a marker. However, I think Wolves should be able to get something here so I am going for a draw.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Leeds United 1-1 Wolves

Bournemouth vs Aston Villa

Aston Villa look very inspiring under Steven Gerrard and I think they will get something out of this clash.

Bournemouth will struggle in the league this season and I see them returning back to the Championship at the end of the season.

I am just going to back Aston Villa to win here, albeit very slim one.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Bournemouth 1-2 Aston Villa

Newcastle vs Nottingham Forest

I won't be surprised if Newcastle finish in the top six this season. They have a wealthy owner these days and they have looked very ambitious. They are chasing Leicester City's James Maddison. If they can get him, I think that will really improve their quality.

Nottingham Forest on their part were very impressive in the championship last season but it remains to be seen if they can also impress playing topflight football this season.

I am just going to stick with Newcastle to win on their turf with the backing of their fans.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Newcastle 2-0 Nottingham Forest

Everton vs Chelsea

I think Chelsea should be able to win this one. if the Blues want to finish in the top four this season, then they should be winning this sort of matches. However, I expect Frank Lampard's Everton side to trouble Chelsea but still Thomas Tuchel's men should be able to edge this encounter.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Everton 1-2 Chelsea

Manchester United vs Brighton

Just like I said about Chelsea, if Manchester United want to finish in the top four this season then they should be winning this sort of match. However, Brighton are no pushovers and should give Erik Ten Hag's men lot of problem on Sunday.

The Red Devils impressed in pre-season and I think if they replicate same form here they should be able to win this one. I am going for a Manchester United win here in front of their fans but it's going to be a very tight game.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Manchester United 2-1 Brighton

Leicester City vs Brentford

So far, Leicester City remains the only side to have not bring in any new face ahead of the new season. Do I think they can finish as high as eighth as they finished last season? No. They will need to reinforce their squad if they wish to finish anywhere close to where they finished last season.

Brentford really impressed last season and I am backing them to get something from this clash. Therefore, I am going for a draw.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: Leicester City 1-1 Brentford

West Ham vs Manchester City

Pep Guardiola's men will be looking to retain the title this season. But they need to show their quality here if they desire a win in this clash. They were very unappealing against Liverpool in the Community Shield and will need to step up their performance here to get the maximum points.

West Ham can be very difficult to play against on their day and City will be hoping it's not West Ham's day on Sunday.

I am going for a Manchester City win here but it going to be a very slim one.

Godwin d Pundit's correct score prediction: West Ham 0-1 Manchester City

Vengeful Lionesses Tamed and Nigeria's 'La Decima' Quest Continues

It was meant to be a belle party experience but turned out a gritty, feisty feast of stop-starts in, perhaps, the most-anticipated clash of the Morocco 2022 CAF Women's African Cup of Nations.

A well-recycled ball by Gotham FC's Ifeoma Onumonu was plunged into the back of the Cameroonian net with Ange Bawou caught napping on her near side by a perfectly placed header from the blue-haired Rasheedat Ajibade, and that was all she wrote as the champions, Nigeria women's national team continued the defence of the title last won on Ghanaian soil four years ago.

The win takes the Super Falcons into the semis where they will play against a Moroccan side that has earned the right to be tagged a formidable opponent.

Before Monday's semifinal showdown with the host, let's check out some of the talking points from the 1-0 win of Nigeria over the Indomitable Lionesses.

Rasheedat Ajibade, a Contender for the MVP 

This is becoming her tournament, and oh my, she's wearing every game like a well-made dinner dress.

Her goal, from the team's only shot on target on the night, is why Nigeria will play Down Under next year when Australia and New Zealand host the FIFA Women's World Cup.

Called RASH, the Atletico de Madrid player has come through the ranks from the juvenile levels to becoming a mainstay in the best team on the continent. 

Although she's won the WAFCON, a 2018 feat, she's definitely hungry for more and that shows in every game she's played in in Morocco.

The 22-year-old gave a WOTM performance against Cameroon with her tenacious contributions across the forward line, and throughout this competition has been a tricky customer for her markers. 

With three goals and two assists, she's the lead scorer of this tourney alongside Morocco's captain, Ghizlane Chebbak, who has two WOTM awards to her name. Both will face off on Monday and their individual performances will surely be an exciting sub-plot of the battle ahead.

Super Falcons Must Make the Most of Set Plays

Times have changed. Big scorelines have thinned out. Women's football has grown and the days when the Falcons handed out heavy defeats to their opponents are long gone. But the team boasts of quality, grounded players that will always trouble oppositions. They'll always create chances and force teams to commit corners and free kicks in dangerous areas. So, they must readapt to taking advantage of these set pieces.

Aside from the penalty kick goal by Ajibade against Burundi and a Christy Ucheibe hearder off a corner, Nigeria has had a plethora of these opportunities but failed to turn a lot into goals.

Eight goals in four games make for an average of two per game. Not a bad return in these times but can be much better if set plays are harnessed. 

Who Won the Battle of the Midfield?

My post match tag for this game is Battle of the Midfield. And neither Cameroon nor Nigeria won. This rivalry historically dates back to when this championship started in 1991. It has metamorphosed into a tight and conservative contest. This particular one was hard sore, draining and left the players leaving their hearts on the field. Didn't expect less as there were so much at stake.

Cameroon's five-person midfield set-up and three for their West African foes made the encounter not pretty for viewing, had plenty of play disruptions, aerial and ground duels ended in fouls and cautions. No way this game could have produced more than a goal.

Matter of fact, it took a moment of sweet dribbling skill from Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene, out-of-position precise cross from Onumonu and a well-struck header by Ajibade for both teams to be separated by the odd margin. Other than that, this fixture was destined for a penalty shootout. 

#GoingFor10 Alive and Running

It's been an arduous journey so far for the African champions. They've played Africa's top teams - Ghana and Cote d'Ivore in the qualifiers, South Africa and Cameroon at the tournament. A few bumps here and there but 'La Decima' dream is still hale and hearty.

Nigeria went into Morocco 2022 on the back of a social media campaign #GoingFor10, asking for support as they bid to win a 10th WAFCON crown. 

As the final whistle blew and history repeated, Nigeria sealed a ninth consecutive ticket to the FIFA WWC. At the end of this championship, this might be the sweetest achievement for Nigeria considering the fact that they are Africa's best and have another chance to equalling their best outing at the World Cup - a quarterfinal in 1999 - or do better.

The team's third oldest player in Morocco at 34, Rita Chikwelu, winner of two African titles, couldn't hold back tears with the Nigerian flag on her shoulders after the win against Cameroon. Going to the World Cup next year could be her swan song to wrap up a decorated career that started in 2007. 

Kudos to Cameroon; WC Hope Still Alive

“We will do everything to win this match” was what Cameroon coach, Gabriel Zabo said before the game. And he did have a plan to make that happen - resolute defending, stiffle the Nigerians when in possession and hit them on the transition. 

Led by Estelle Johnson in the defence, the Lionesses limited the Falcons to just one shot on target (proved to be the difference though) and just four corners. Nigeria's frontline personnel were reduced to constantly changing positions due to Cameroon's great man-marking capacity.

The journey back home will be a long, reflective one but this effort in futility doesn't mean they're out of the chase for a world cup ticket. There's a glimmer of hope - a playoff match and a path to the FIFA WWC through the extended playoff process.

Super Falcons Player Ratings after 1-0 win over Cameroon

 

Nigeria qualified for the semifinals and also secured a spot at next year's FIFA Women’s World Cup finals and here's how Rotimi Akindele rated the players in the quarter final win over rivals Cameroon.

Chiamaka Nnadozie, 7

Cool, calm and collected as always. Helped in making the defense pay attention to little details, was never really troubled and was solid enough to register her third straight clean sheet in the competition

Toni Payne, 6

Played as a make-shift right back before she switched to the left towards the latter stages of the game. Was pretty decent in the position especially with her pace and solid clearances. One of the versatiles in the team

Osinachi Ohale, 6

Had another decent game in the center half and would be proud to have helped register another clean sheet

Onome Ebi

Definitely marching on with her experience. Made some vital touches and intercepted a lot aerially. She won't be so bothered about getting into the referee's book

Asleigh Plumptre, 6

Played in a position where she is still trying to adapt but had put in a good shift before she was replaced in the second half

Halimat Ayinde, 7

Steady midfield performance. Easily breaks opponents play and has an eye to launch good passes towards the attack. One of Nigeria's best performers on the night

Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene, 8

Proving to be a midfield maestro. She was solid all through as she helped the attack and the defense during the entire game. Made the strong brilliant move that led to the only goal of the game. It was an MVP performance but she didn't get the award post game and we all knew why…

Rasheedat Ajibade, 8

Got Nigeria's only goal of the night. Proving to be an asset to the team since day 1 especially since Oshoala's injury. Was well positioned for the winning goal and read the ball nicely. Helped with defense as well whenever she's not driving the attack. She was voted the Woman of the Match post game

Ifeoma Onumonu, 6

Still struggling to lead the pack but her all round presence is commendable. She delivered the pin-point cross that found Ajibade for the only goal. She's got to find the back of the net often to boost her confidence

Christy Ucheibe, 6

Average performance in the midfield, good enough to help the team grind out the win

Francisca Ordega, 5

After some early incursions in the first half, she was lost for the better part of the game especially as she struggled to really hold down her own from the wings

Subs

Michelle Alozie, 6

Came in to help the defense and did well for over 25 minutes. A good asset

Uchenna Kanu, 4

Did little after being brought on

Rita Chikwelu, 5

Brought in the needed experience to calm some nerves late on

Regina Otu, 4

Did little or nothing within the short time

Gift Monday, 4

Still struggling to get enough playing time

REVENGE ONE OF THINGS TO LOOK OUT FOR AS NIGERIA FACE CAMEROON FOR A WORLD CUP PLACE

 

Conquering Africa nine times in twelve attempts comes with both a blessing and a curse. That's the fate of the Super Falcons of Nigeria, the undisputed queens of African women's football. On one hand, they have the ultimate bragging rights and history a lot would kill for, creating a gap in the process that will take decades to reduce or close. On the flip side, it regularly puts a target on their back during African qualifiers and championships, as teams develop their game and prepare to topple them.

Kufre Ekpe provides a few things to look out for as the Super Falcons take on Cameroon in a high stakes game of winner takes World Cup ticket and place in the semifinal

CAMEROON GOING FOR REVENGE

Among the biggest rivalries in African women’s football is Nigeria v Cameroon and this is as far as football rivalries go - rich, intense, exciting, gruelling and physical. 

In 31 years, the Super Falcons and Indomitable Lionesses have met four times in the final of the WAFCON. The Nigerian ladies have dominated the Indomitable Lionesses in all.

Nigeria and Cameroon have met in all editions except for 2002 (paths didn't cross) and 1995 (the Lionesses were walked over).

The last time both sides met was at the 2016 Final in Yaounde, where the Super Falcons denied the Lionesses their first time, and in front of their fans and president, costing them money and national honours.

It is a pain that is yet to go away and what better way for Cameroon to claim their pound of flesh than to deny their rivals the chance of a direct World Cup ticket for the first time.

CAN NIGERIA SHOW BOUNCEBACKABILITY?

In 2018, the Super Falcons lost to South Africa in their opening game, but bounced back to win their next two games and qualify for the semfinal (it was still an eight team tournament at the time).

Their semifinal opponents were, you guessed it, Cameroon. A tough game ended 0-0 and the Super Falcons triumphed 4-2 on penalties and then went on to win the final against South Africa, also on penalties.

Is history about to repeat itself?

The first three games of the Super Falcons have taught us many things about the team. They have rebounded from a below-par, pegged-back performance against Banyana Banyana to play possessive, tactical games against Botswana and Burundi. They were good and dominant in the last two games of the group stage. But will that be enough going head-to-head against an ambitious Cameroon?

And will it be enough to take them all the way to La Decima?

HOW IMPORTANT WILL OKOBI AND PAYNE BE? AND HOW WILL WALDRUM SHAPE UP TACTICALLY

Aside from the first game, midfielder Ngozi Okobi-Okeoghene has featured in others and has proven she's an asset that will a handful for Cameroon.

In a free role, Sweden-based Okobi-Okeoghene was instrumental to Waldrum's tactical deployment against Botswana. Bursting with agility, she was the driving force, providing energy, forward play and control to the team’s play for 64 minutes. In 90 minutes against Burundi, she had the higher number of key passes (5).

The 28-year-old's influence in the midfield underlines her pivotal role as a versatile midfielder. The Eskilstuna United player is a battler, a clear head and a steady presence for the Falcons. Her recovery rate is also impressive. A midfield collaboration with Halimatu Ayinde and Peace Efih will avail the team grit and balance to match Cameroon's physical strength.

Defensively, Michelle Alozie is expected to be back on the right. But it will be fascinating to see what Waldrum decides for the left spot as he's started three different left-wing backs in three games - Ashleigh Plumptre (South Africa), Toni Payne (Botswana) and Nicole Payne (Burundi). Glory Ogbonna has also played there as a sub, for 43 minutes against Burundi.

Though not a natural left back, the overwhelming choice will be Toni Payne. She has established herself as an offensively gifted player and played an advanced role against South Africa. But Waldrum unpredictably played her as a left-wing back in Botswana's game, and she provided something new - pace, drive and quick recovery. These attributes will come in handy against Cameroon.

The centre-back partnership of captain Onome Ebi and Osinachi Ohale has gotten better with the passing of the competition. Both are good passers of the ball, recording excellent passing accuracy so far, specifically in the last two games. Singling out the WOTM against Burundi, Ohale, she's been impressive in her ball distribution, constantly supplying long balls to the forwards. Rasheedat Ajibade benefited tremendously from this against Burundi.

Waldrum reverted to the 4-3-3 formation against Burundi, this time making use of the wings. Nigeria's wing play troubled the Burundesi. Ajibade and Uchenna Kanu exploited their space, outpacing their markers. This is another element of their game strategy that Cameroon should be wary of.

It will be interesting to see how Waldrum will line up against Cameroon but a starting roster of Nnadozie; T. Payne, Ebi, Ohale, Alozie; Ayinde, Efih, Okobi-Okeoghene; Ajibade, Kanu and Onumonu will be very competitive and difficult to best.

Cameroonian Football Federation President, Samuel Etoó has given the team a semi-final target, which makes this fixture a do-or-die battle against the title holders.

THROW BACK TO NIGERIA’S LAST TRIP TO LESOTHO

Christian Obodo in Maseru after supplying the cross for Yakubu Aiyegbeni's game winner against Lesotho

Nigeria arrived in Maseru on Saturday ahead of their 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Lesotho on Sunday.

It has been 13 years since the Super Eagles were last in the southern African country. Not a single Super Eagles player from that era remains in the squad today.

Recently-retired former captain John Mikel Obi, who missed that game (a story for another day), would have been the only player from that time still in the squad if he was still around.

I was one of just two Nigerian journalists in Maseru for that game, which unfortunately, was n to broadcast live. So it was my match report for KickOffNigeria that most people had to rely on for proceedings.

Here is my throwback travelogue and report from that trip and game from 2006. 

This report was originally written for the CyberEagles forum

ARRIVAL

I left Nigeria on Thursday night and arrived Johannesburg about 6am Friday morning. Before leaving Lagos, I was told that the boys would be going by road to Lesotho (pronounced Lesutu). 

On arrival, I rang Idah Peterside and he told me the plans had changed. A first batch of players had left at 6am that morning and a second batch was due to leave by 9:30am. 

As it was already close to 8am, I crossed over from Arrivals to Departures and was lucky enough to catch the second batch. Leading them was Tunde Adelakun, accompanied by Team Co-ordinator Jossy Dombraye (I will return to him later) and Chidi Ngoka, an NFA staff. 

Luckily, I discovered there was a seat available and I quickly bought a ticket. Players on the trip were Emmanuel Okoduwa, Bob Osim, Uche Udeorah and Oguche (no relation to Lobi team mate Andy). 

FLIGHT OF FEAR

Nothing prepared us for the shock we got at the tarmac. We were to fly in a Jetstream 41 aircraft 

It’s the smallest thing I have ever flown in and like I reported here, not an experience I want to repeat. Dombraye was providing entertainment of sorts for the players by clinging to the seat in front of him for dear life. By the time we touched down, there was a general agreement that we take photos in front of the plane, which we did. 

CAMP SPIRIT 

Most of the players were still in bed when we arrived and I only got to see them at lunch. But there was quite obviously a relaxed atmosphere in the camp. 

BTW, I had planned to join the team bus for training. After lunch, I decided to go upstairs to my room as we still had about an hour to go before training. The bus was due to leave by 2:45pm. 

While watching TV, I didn’t know when I dropped off, and by the time I opened my eyes to take a leak, it was 4pm! I had to find my way to the place. . .and it cost me. 

It would take someone who has been in the Eagles camp before, during- and post-Oliseh to understand what I mean here. 

Yobo walked up to the two new boys,, Udeorah and Ogbuke, shook their hands and welcomed them to the family. Kanu did the same, and even took Udeorah under his wing. 

Players were walking into each other’s rooms, staying up late, talking, gisting, laughing and sharing jokes. The camaraderie was unbelievable. For instance, after the game I was in Oruma and Yakubu’s room where Kanu, Oruma, Yakubu, Obodo, Enakarhire, Ogbuke and Udeorah spent hours watching Nigerian home videos and reliving past experiences until 3am in the morning. 

We were joined by others who came and went, like Nwaneri, Okonkwo, Enyeama, Yobo, etc. It was a mini-party of sorts with an i-Pod terminal hitting music like mad, and everyone singing and dancing. Even Samson Siasia joined the party, although he took some time to speak to Obinna about his game and how he should clean up his act. 

MIKEL SITUATION

The one sour angle to all this was the Mikel situation. All the players are very upset with Mikel for not turning up. Almost everyone compared him to Kanu, saying he hadn’t achieved as much as Papilo and yet he was doing big man. 

The general feeling is that Mikel is feeling like a ‘Big Boy’ because he plays for Chelsea, and I suspect he wont get hugs and kisses the next time he shows up in camp. 

I will post the story of the saga later. 

PITCH AND MATCH BALLS

The players got a chance to train on the pitch on Saturday afternoon. 

Let me just talk a bit about the weather. When I got there on Friday, I discovered the game was for 3pm Lesotho time. 

Come 3pm, the whole place was hot as hell and I asked the FA official is they would not have to change the time to maybe 4pm? He said it would be fine by Sunday. 

On Saturday, by 3pm, the place was biting cold. I couldn’t believe it. 

When the boys trained on the pitch, they were aghast. It was rough, bumpy and undulating even though it looked good from a distance. 

After dinner, the discussion was the best way to approach the pitch and the directive from Eguavoen was that they should not stretch themselves too much. Just do enough to make sure the Likuena did not have time on the ball and pressure them high on their side of the field. 

As for the ball, it was horrible. Just a touch (even for a non footballer like me) was enough to know that those match balls would not cut it. Unfortunately, the boys had to live with it. 

By 1pm on Sunday, it was raining cats and dogs. Up until we got to the stadium, it was still pouring. In a way, this helped our boys as it softened the pitch, but it also meant the balls were flying and as they had been instructed to take it easy, it meant chasing lost causes was out of the question. 

Martins tried on one occasion and learnt his lesson. 

MINUTE BY MINUTE REPORT

FIRST HALF 

1’ Kickoff by the hosts. Nigeria in green, playing from right to left. 

4’ Martins chases down what looks like a lost ball, out paces his marker to win the ball. But there is nobody to meet his cutback inside the box. Lesotho clear. 

5’ Oruma hits a shot that is deflected for a corner kick. 

7’ Taye Taiwo misses a right foot clearance in front of the 18-yard box. Sello Muso latches on to it, but Taiwo recovers to block the shot. 

8’ Yakubu is put through by Martins, but he is crowded out by two defenders inside the box. 

10’ A poor defensive header almost lets Martins in, but he wins a corner kick from which Ogbuke’s shot is headed agonisingly over the top by Martins 

14’ Yobo concedes freekick just past the halfway line. Bokang Mothoana hits a ferocious drive which is scrambled to safety by Enyeama as it headed for the bottom right hand corner. Lesotho win their first corner kick after Nigeria’s three. 

19’ BOOKING: Yakubu gets the ball inside the net, but the whistle had already gone for offside and the Middlesbrough striker is booked. 

20’ Mothoana hits another long range drive that Enyeama fists away, as it heads for the top right hand corner. 

23’ Yakubu’s threaded ball splits the defence and Martins is through on goal, but goalkeeper Phasumane Kholuoe is quick off his line and makes a fine save 

25’ Seyi Olofinjana, who has been having a great game, dispossesses one man and finds Martins who forces another good save from the keeper. 

28’ Olofinjana wins the ball—again—inside his half and makes a great run past defenders with ease. But he fails to make the pass and loses the ball on the edge of the 18-yard box. The subsequent counter attack almost proves fatal. Eguavoen is livid! 

34’ Obodo heads at keeper from Abbey cross 

35’ Ogbuke misses from close range from Taiwo’s freekick. 

40’ Obagoal again just heads over as the half peters away. 

SECOND HALF 

46’ Oruma wins freekick on the right hand channel. Taiwo curls it inside the box and is headed in by Yakubu, but the goal is ruled out for a foul on the keeper. 

50’ GOAL! Obodo picks up the ball in the left hand channel, gets in a bit of a mess as Taiwo tries to shoot. But Obodo gets the ball, floats it into the area and Yakubu is on hand to make an easy tap in. 

53’ Yobo almost makes it two from another Taiwo freekick, but heads narrowly wide. 

57’ BOOKING: Bushy Moletsane booked for a challenge on Oruma. 

58’ BOOKING: Abbey promptly joins him after a crunchy challenge from behind on Bokang, who has been Lesotho’s most dangerous player along with Muso. The Nigerian is lucky to escape with only a yellow. 

62’ SUBSTITUTION: Bokang off for Katleho Moleko and Bushy off for Ralekoti Mokhahlane. 

73’ Nwaneri easily disposseses Refiloe Potse—for the umpteenth time, and frustrated fans call for the striker to be substituted. 

74’ Martins breaks through again, but the goalkeeper makes yet another great save. 

75’ SUBSTITUTION: Okoduwa on for Ogbuke 

78’ Oruma’s freekick causes all manner of panic in the Lesotho box. Yakubu’s ball looks to be dribbling in but is cleared off the line! 

80’ Potse makes way for Tefo Maipato to derisive applause from the crowd. 

82’ Fans bay for penalty as ball hits Yobo on the arm. Ref rules it was shoulder 

83’ SUBSTITUTION: Yakubu off for Kanu. 

86’ BOOKING: Langana Nkhethoa booked for poor challenge on Oruma 

88’ SUBSTITUTION: Oruma off for Okonkwo. 

89’ A clearly unfit Kanu gives the ball away for the third time. Muso gets a good shot in but Enyeama has it covered. Five minutes of added time to be played. 

95’ FULL TIME: Crowd unhappy at referee ending the game ‘early’. 

PLAYER RATINGS 

Enyeama 6 

Apart from two long range efforts, one from a freekick, he could have taken a holiday in the Carribeans. 

Abbey 5 

Took out one half of Lesotho’s dangerous duo with what should have been a sending off tackle from behind. Did his primary job of keeping his corner tight. 

Taiwo 6 

Bounded up and down the left flank and gave the Likuena plenty to think about whenever they conceded freekicks. 

Yobo 7 

Commanding in the air, solid in the tackle and quick to close down opponents. Gave nothing away except for that near-miss with hand ball. 

Nwaneri 6 

Started shakily, but grew in confidence and mauled Potse so much that fans called for the striker to be taken off and the player himself must have been relieved to see his name on the board. 

Olofinjana 7 

By far his best game for the Super Eagles so far in recent times. This, despite being outnumbered in the centre of the park. All he needed was a goal, and he almost got one. 

Oruma 7 

Ran the show in the middle, and kept possession well despite getting crowded out by a packed midfield. Involved in most of our attacking moves. 

Obodo 7 

As usual, kept cutting into the middle to help out. Fabulous, quick thinking assist for the goal. 

Ogbuke 5 

Always willing to take on defenders and track back to win the ball back. Unfortunately, he lost the ball too often in trying to take on players. When his moves begin to come off, defenders will be in trouble. 

Martins 7 

Worked hard, worked the channels and had about three half chances that he should have put away. 

Yakubu 8 

Undoubtedly the man of the match. Roughed up the Lesotho defenders, always available to give or receive a through ball and was willing to do his share of defensive duty. 

Okoduwa 5 

Showed committent on his debut and almost forced the keeper into a bad error with his never say die spirit almost immediately after coming in. 

Okonkwo 5 

His first international and he came out selling of roses. Kept it simple with the one-touch passing. All he needs now is a European club. 

Kanu 3 

A poor game by his standards through no fault of his and even Papilo himself knows it. Gave the ball away each time he got it. 

THE NIGERIA SQUAD TO LESOTHO

Goalkeepers: Vincent Enyeama (Bnei Yehuda, Israel), Greg Etafia (Moroka Swallows, South Africa), Dele Aiyenugba (Enyimba, Nigeria) 

Defenders: Joseph Yobo, (Everton, England), Taiye Taiwo, (Olympique Marseille, France), George Abbey (Macclesfield Town, England), Joseph Enakhaire (Bordeaux, France), Obinna Nwaneri (Esperance, Tunisia), Bob Usim (Heartland, Nigeria), Ude Uche (Nasarawa United, Nigeria) 

Midfielders: Wilson Oruma, (Olympique Marseille), Christian Obodo (Udinese, Italy), Mikel Obi (Chelsea, England), Seyi Olofinjana (Wolverhampton Wanderers, England), Kazeem Ayila (Dynamo Kiev, Ukraine), Okardi Blessing (Ocean Boys, Nigeria), Oguchi Uche (Lobi Stars, Nigeria) 

Forwards: Yakubu Aiyegbeni (Middlesborough, England), Nwankwo Kanu (Portsmouth, England), Osaze Odemwingie (Lille, France), Obafemi Martins (Newcastle, England), John Utaka (Stade Rennes, France), Ayodele Makinwa (Lazio, Italy), Emmanuel Okoduwa (Shakhtar Donetsk, Ukraine), Chinedu Ogbuke (Lyn Oslo, Norway).