The final Group C match between Ethiopia and Nigeria brought nothing but frustration in the goalscoring department for either team and it soon became evident why both nations had struggled to find the back of the net throughout the tournament.
As expected, Nigeria dominated the opening 45 and pressed their adversaries from the very first whistle. However, they continued to lack in the final finishing, despite some great build-up play and their three-man attacking trident.
Ethiopia’s last win in the African Cup of Nations stretched all the back to 1976 and they soon realized that the only way they were going to create a chance to put their side ahead was from their counter-attacking play.
Pace was definitely in favour of the Black Lions and they were utilizing the option of sending looping balls over Nigeria’s slow backline to try leave them exposed, while they also used their pace against their markers to try earn free-kicks around the danger zone.
Through the first 65 minutes of play the Eagles were working intricate passes into the box before unleashing their shots, but they soon realized that their biggest threat came from distance when they struck twice from range.
However, the midfield battle continued to take control of the game and it became evident that the only way a goal was to be scored was if it was handed to them with the permission from the referee.
So it happened, when Victor Moses was brought down in the box and handed a spot-kick with 11 minutes to go. The striker converted it with ease after he sent Sisay Bancha in the wrong direction.
Another penalty was awarded seven minutes later when Bancha brought down Moses in the box and was shown his marching orders.
Unlike his efforts from open play he made no error again and converted the strike in the 89th minute, leaving Ethiopia eliminated and forcing them to look back at the drawing board to see where their efforts went astray.
Meanwhile, for Nigeria their win ensured them a spot in the quarterfinals. It is all good and well having possession, but they will need to use their time now to find a way to utilize their opportunities in a better manner.
Recent Comments