Tuesday, 18 March 2014

FIFA U17 Women's World Cup 2014 Group D Preview: Nigeria V Colombia

It’s advantage for the Flamingoes as they are set to qualify for the knockout round of Costa Rica 2014.


The sort of form which saw them sweep away opposition during the tour of Nigeria, Portugal and Belgium wasn't displayed in the 2-1 victory against China. The girls are expected to step-up the plate in the Colombia clash.

Despite the average show by team skipper Chinwendu Ihezuo in the first match, most followers of the game still tip her to deliver the goals, while Colombia still have Castaneda to rely on. First choice central defenders Ugochi Emenayo and Esther Elijah are certain to pair for the two-time quarter finalists.

The power and pace of Chinwendu Ihezuo, who had an average game on Monday, will provide a stern test for a Colombian centre back pairing of Acosta and Hurtado which is vulnerable.

Also the quartet of Mary Ologbosere, Rasheedat Ajibade, Uchenna Kanu and Aminat Yakubu could all wreck the opposition.

The Coaches reaction

Bala Nikyu: In a competition you must improve match after match and when you are able to win the first match you are able to play more relax in the next.

Fabian Taborda: Nigeria is blessed with great talents. They will be very motivated. It's not going to be a piece of cake, but we are confident that we have what it takes to beat them.

Probable line-ups

Nigeria (4-2-1-3): Okeke, Anibaba, Ologbosere, Elijah, Emenayo, Ihuoma, Bokiri, Ajibade, Yakubu, Kanu, Ihezuo

Colombia (4-4-2): Florez, Quinones, Paez, Acosta, Hurtado, Restrepo, Asprilla, Rodrigues, Castaneda, Rodriguez, Acuna

Previous meetings

Played 1: Colombia 0, Draws 0, Nigeria 1

2012: (FIFA U17 Women's World Cup): Nigeria 3-0 Colombia
 
Expert Edge: The Nigerians will be hoping to prey on the South American side. Flamingoes should win by 5-0

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