Iran and Nigeria played to a goalless draw in their World Cup opener.
Iran 0-0 Nigeria
Iran and Nigeria played out to the first draw in this World Cup and that to a goalless draw.The draw places them ahead of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Nigeria were the favourites in the match but weren't able to go through the Iran's disciplined defence.
Nigeria enjoyed most of the possession in the match but weren't able to create many chances. Nigeria had the early chance in the game when Moses tries his chance at goal in the 2nd minute. Five minutes later Nigeria had the ball inside the net but the goal was disallowed as Mikel had fouled the Iran goalkeeper. Nigeria was fully attacking the Iran defence to get an early goal in the game. In the 8th minute Onazi was the one to try his luck at the goal but his shot went off target. Iran clearly improved their defence after those first few minutes and didn't open up easily. Nigeria lost their momentum when Oboabona had injured his ankle and had to be substituted. No major chances were created by both the teams. Nigeria's attack seemed to have weakened after those early attempts. Nigeria weren't able to get clear chances at goal. All their attempts were foiled by brilliant defending. Iran's major chance in the first half came in the 34th minute when Ghoochanneijhad's header from close range troubled the goalkeeper. Iran and Nigeria went into half time goalless. With 41 goals in the last twelve games it was really disappointing not to see a goal in the first half.
Early in second half, Nigeria was down in spirits and they weren't able to execute their passes rightly. Ironically in this half it was Iran who started attack but weren't able to score. Couple of shots were blocked and Ghoochanneijhad attempts went off target. Nigeria lost their momentum and their passes were inaccurate. There was not much happening for either team and wasn't any good opportunities at goal. Nigeria lost their way in the match and lost ball more often. Iran's counter-attack amounted to nothing as their long shots mostly went off target. Iran's Ghoochanneijhad helped them with their counter-attack but wasn't able to provide the finish. Only 5 shots in the entire match was hit on target. Nigeria's last chance came just before stoppage time but Ameobi's header was blocked off by Pooladi. Iran got last chance with a free kick but can't do much with that.Despite having control of the ball so much the Nigeria lacked the finishing they needed. Iran were putting pressure on Nigeria making them lose focus and make mistakes but they too weren't able to get the needed finishing touch.the entire match was slow paced and both the teams played to a boring draw.
Nigeria's streak of not being able to win a match in the World Cup now extends to nine with this goalless draw. Iran would definitely be happy with this result and would be hoping to upset another big team in their next match against Argentina. Nigeria should regroup and improve their strategy if they want to qualify to the next round.
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