Nigeria lights up hope of 2018 World Cup, defeats Algeria 3-1

Nigeria’s hope of qualifying for Russia 2018 World Cup was rekindled Saturday in Uyo when the Super Eagles defeated the Desert Foxes of Algeria 3-1 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

Chelsea of England’s winger, Victor Moses scored a brace for the Eagles in the 25th minute and at the injury time while his team mate in the English Premier League, John Obi Mikel also scored in the 41st minute.

Algeria’s Nabil Bentaleb scored for the visitors in the 67th minute outside the 18 yards.

Eagles Manager, Gernot Rohr, told sports journalists at a post-match briefing that although Nigeria won the match, “it was a difficult game.

He said: “We made a very good first half just like we did in Ndola, Zambia, but the visitors got pushing in the second half. We suffered so much in the beginning of the second half.

“The third goal came through a professional touch. It is not finished. It is a long way to go. We still have games against Algeria, Cameroon and Zambia.’’

He also had praises for the Super Eagles goal-keeper Daniel Akeyi saying he had a good game even though he could not stop Bentaleb’s wonderful shot.

“What is important is the team. We had a mixture of experienced and young players,’’ he said.

He, however, said that he had problems with the Eagles defense which he would work hard to improve upon.

Similarly, Algerian Coach, Georges Leekens, hired about two weeks ago by the Fennecs, said the match was balanced and tight.

“My team created lots of chances but could not utilise them. We have not given up in the group. We still have opportunities in the remaining matches to qualify,” he said.