Thursday, 11 June 2015

PREVIEW: Nigeria Vs Germany


The FIFA U20 world cup match between Nigeria and Germany is a clash of continental champions and promises an awful lot on paper.

Both have looked in superb form so far, with Nigeria's defeat to Brazil the only blemish from the pair's entire tournament. They've hit 24 goals between them so far, with the Europeans setting a new record for the group stage with their staggering haul of 16 in three games.

The German team is fearsome and have been tipped to be champions of the World Youth Championship.

They annihilated Fiji 8-1 before crushing Uzbekistan 3-0. And in their last group game, the Germans didn’t let off steam at all, effortlessly dispatching Honduras 5-1.

But some pundits have argued that they didn't face quality opposition in the Group games and they are expected to meet a better customer in Nigeria.

It will be an intriguing meeting of styles too, with Germany's incisive and probing passing play sitting opposite the electrifying counter-attacks of Nigeria. Both are built to attack and all signs point to a superb knockout tie.

The Germans will be unleashing skipper Kevin Akpoguma who incidentally could have been wearing the Nigerian colors.

Born and raised in Germany, Akpoguma has not forgotten is Nigerian roots having visited Nigeria twice to see his grandparents who still live in Benin City.

On the part of the Flying Eagles, the quartet of Taiwo Awoniyi, Godwin Saviour, Isaac Success and Kingsley Sokari have been amazing for them.

Their contribution will go a long way in helping the 1989 and 2005 finalists in giving the Germans a good match.

No comments: