ABUJA – A cross-section of football enthusiasts on Monday in Abuja expressed optimism that Nigeria will beat Argentina in their final Group F match billed for Wednesday in Porto Alegre.
Nigeria had earlier played a goalless draw with Iran on June 16 and won 1-0 against Bosnia-Herzegovina on June 21.
The results meant they needed just a draw against the two-times World Cup winners on Wednesday to advance to the Round of 16.
But the football enthusiasts told NAN that the Eagles could beat Argentina once they could be focused and active during the game.
Ali Mohammed, a school teacher, said the team needs to apply good tactics because Argentina are a good side.
“The Eagles need to be focused and should apply good tactics because Argentina are a very good side.
“Though Argentina may drop some of their key players because they have already qualified, but the Eagles should still expect a tough game and they should therefore be able to give them a good fight,’’ he said.
Michael Ibe, a trader at Wuse market, said while the team has improved after their match against Iran, they still need more hard work to defeat Argentina.
“The team has greatly improved from their match against Iran, but they should not relent, even with the four points they have.
“It will be bad if Argentina claim victory. At least a draw will be alright,’’ he said.
Sarah Ojukwu, a housewife, is also hopeful that the Eagles would win their match against Argentina.
“The match Nigeria played against Bosnia-Herzegovina has built my confidence in the Super Eagles. So, I am sure that they will beat Argentina.
“The Eagles should be at their best, as their fans expect a lot more from them’’, she added.
An FCT cab driver, William Ndube, equally advised the Eagles to work more on their finishing.
“It is bad that they have lost many goal scoring chances in the competition so far,’’ he said.(NAN)
