90 minutes in Alexandria: How Nigeria will Play in the Final Battle Against Egypt [2017 AFCON Qualifiers]

Egypt Vs Nigeria
Venue: Borg El Arab Stadium Alexandria  (40, 000 Capacity)
Date: Tuesday, March 29, 2016
Time: 19: 00 UTC +2 (6pm Nigerian time)
Referee: Daniel Bennett (South Africa)

It’s not over until it is over! Super Eagles of Nigeria will step into the battle of Alexandria with one thing in mind: “No Retreat, No Surrender!” As Nigeria’s head coach, Samson Siasia, puts it: “if Pharaohs of Egypt could hit the net 90 minutes on the dot, to run away with a draw in Kaduna, then Nigeria can do more in  Borg El Arab Stadium in Alexandria – ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE!”

Until the final whistle, it’ll never be over. Since Nigerian players knows  that a draw will knock them out of the Fiesta in Gabon next year, especially now that Chad had withdrew from the qualifiers.

Super Eagles has no other option but to attack and attack. For 90minutes or so, the players must give their all, hoping that attack will be the best form of defense; in their mission to turn around the table in Alexandria.

 Option A:

Siasia should ensure he feature players that can hold the ball and dribbles so well to cut out Egyptian defenders during the run of play; in case the Egyptian employ defensive tactics and sit back within their 18 yards box defending. Players like Victor Moses, Alex Iwobi, Ahmed Umar should be considered in this case.

OptionB: 

Siasia should alternatively feature players with fast pace up front, in case the Egyptian come out to attack too. With long passes to players like Ahmed Musa, Dion Ighalo, Morses Simon, to cause the actual damagei with  counter attacks.

The AFCON Qualifiers’ second leg match will play out at the center . Super Eagles will have to work hard in the defense. Elderson Echejie may be introduced along aide Leo Balogun and at defensive midfielders like John Mikel, Ogeniyi Onazi…. Perhaps, Ahmed Musa should be drafted to play at the midfield because of his work rate (High stamina and pace).

Miracle of Alexandria:

Now, let’s go a bit spiritual, For once most Nigerian fans want this team to succeed.  They may have prayed and fasted in their own way. Words have also gone out in different Spiritual quarters that Nigeria will win the battle in Alexandria. I dare to say the final score will be 1 – 2 in favor Nigeria.

We have seen miracles happen several times to uplift Nigeria national teams  in major tournaments and we have come to believe that the ‘god of soccer’ is a Nigerian. So our faith are so strong,believing for another miracle in Alexandria.