The Nigeria U20 team will today play their second group game at the ongoing U20 World Cup in Argentina when they take on Italy. They won the first game against Dominican Republic 2-1.
Italy also won their opening game 3-2 against Brazil meaning a win for either team today will see them progress to the round of 16 of the tournament with a game to spare. OwngoalNigeria.com editor in chief Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman takes a look at the things Nigeria must do to beat Italy.
1. Keep it tight at the back – The strength of the Nigerian team is the defence with only two goals conceded at the Africa Cup of Nations. From what we saw in the opening game, the Italian side can score goals so defending like they have always done should be top of their priority list going into today’s game.
2. Take their chances – One thing is certain, Italy won’t give the Nigerians the type of space they had against Dominican Republic. The Ladan Bosso led side were wasteful in that game but in game like that of today where chances will be few and limited. They have to make the most of anyone that comes their way.
3. Deny Cesare Casadei time and space- Casadei makes the Italian team ticks. The on loan Chelsea midfielder was too much for Brazil in the opening exchanges until they decided to deny him space and time by closing him up very early. Going that route saw them took control and scored twice but it was a little bit too late to wrestle anything from the game. Flying Eagles will do well by doing the same thing from the blast of the whistle.
4. Start Emmanuel Umeh – He was used as an impact player in the first game but not until his introduction the team didn’t really get going. His movement and close ball skills helped bring others into play. Handing him a start will mean pushing the Italian back from the start.
5. Jude Sunday has to make good decisions – He tormented the defence of Dominican Republic non stop. However poor decision making in key moment denied him a goal and an assist. He has to know when to shoot , pass , run or cross because he seems to be the team’s surest route to goal.
Mohammed Mowiz
