The ‘African Cup of Nations’ winners’ Nigeria will be looking to hoist themselves onto the second place ahead of Iran and Bosnia and Herzgovina. The Asian powerhouse are ranked 43rd, the African side are right on their tail at 44th position. This game is going to be a low key affair with not many goals to offer. Iran can build their momentum on the fact that the Nigerians were hugely distracted due to their protest fueled by their poor salaries. Both the teams will be looking to outpace each other for a potential second place finish ahead of the newcomers Bosnia and Herzgovina.
Players to look out for:
John Obi Mikel is a crucial man in the Nigerian midfield as his experience will be called upon. Victor Moses, known for his stints in Chelsea and Liverpool will be another Nigerian player to look for in the midfield along with Stoke City forward Peter Odemwingie. Among the Iranians, Reza Ghoochannejhad and Fulham winger Ashkan Dejagah will be paramount to their country’s attacking prospects. Iran’s captain Javad Nekounam will have to summon his experience as Osasuna midfielder to keep his country’s hopes alive.
Teams head-to-head:
The two teams have met just once before with Nigeria winning by a 1-0 margin.
Probable line-ups:
Iran: Davari; Beitashour, Hosseini, Sadeghi, Pooladi; Nekounam, Teymourian; Haddadifa, Shojaei, Dejagah; Ghoochannejhad.
Nigeria: Enyeama; Ambrose, Oboabona, Omerou, Oshaniwa; Mikel, Onazi, Azeez, Moses; Odemwingie, Emenike.
Predictions:
The African side will most likely pick up a comfortable victory despite Iran’s note-wothy defense.
Final Score Predictions: Iran 1- 2 Nigeria
Match timings: 3:30 am IST.
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