Having qualified for the 2018 FIFA Mundial in Russia for a sixth time, we look at the top six amazing moments that Nigerians won’t forget in a jiffy when it comes to the FIFA World Cup.
Nigeria VS Bulgaria – USA 1994
A very significant moment for Nigeria as they made their first appearance at the World Cup, and the first game was against an European superpower at that time. Late Rashidi Yekini scored Nigeria first ever goal in a FIFA World Cup match. The match ended 3-0, with Daniel Amokachi and Emmanuel Amunike also finding the back of the net.
Nigeria VS Argentina – USA 1994
In the same tournament, the Super Eagles continued to show their mettle after beating Bulgaria in their first game, their next foe, Argentina had already defeated Greece in their own encounter, leaving the South Americans as favourites to win the game against Nigerians. However, the Eagles once again showed their resilience as Samson Siasia lashed a shot past Argentine goalkeeper Luis Islas to make life difficult for Argentines, although they won 2-1.
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Italy VS Nigeria – USA 1994
Nigerians would never forget this match as the Super Eagles almost made it to the second round of the competition, Emmanuel Amunike scored first for Nigeria but an equalizer by Italian talisman, Roberto Baggio two minutes before final whistle took the game to extra time with Baggio also scoring the winning goal from the penalty spot. Nigeria bowed out honorably after the 2 -1 loss.
Nigeria VS Spain – France 1998
This was a game many had written Super Eagles off, due to the array of stars in the Spanish national team with the likes of Raul Gonzalez, Luis Enrique and Fernando Hierro but the Super Eagles showed character and willingness to triumph as they defeated the Spaniards 3 – 2. Courtesy goals from Mutiu Adepoju, Garba Lawal and a thunderous strike of Sunday Oliseh ensured Nigeria defeated the Spaniards.
Nigeria VS England – Korea/Japan 2002
This was a match that ended in a goalless draw but it was a very exciting match which also saw the breakthrough of Vincent Enyeama as Nigeria Goalkeeper for years afterwards. Several English stars features in the game such as David Beckam and Michael Owen but they were put off by Nigerian creative pack players with the likes of then skipper Jay Jay Okocha, Joseph Yobo and other players putting up a good show.
Nigeria VS Argentina – Brazil 2014
Two goals from Ahmed Musa gave the Argentines a tough fight for the top spots position of the group but the Eagles could not finish the job as they couldn’t stop the Argentine wizard Lionel Messi. Argentina won the match 3 – 2 but there was hope for the Nigerians having performed immensely during the thrilling encounter.
Fela is the Co-founder of MediaVision Limited .
