Last night Nigeria picked up their first win of the 2014 World Cup when they defeated Bosnia and Herzegovina 1-0. The game was under Nigerian control for the most part and the Africans looked likely to score first. There was controversy however. Early on in the game the side were still level. Dzeko picked up a lovely pass and finished it into the back of the Nigerian net. The linesman signaled for offside quite late and the goal was disallowed. Replays showed Dzeko was onside. Nigeria took the lead in the 29th minute when Peter Odemwingie scored.
Odemwingie celebrates his goal.
While Nigeria were in control this win will be marred by a controversial refereeing decision.Bosnia’s goalkeeper Asmir Begovic took the law into his own hands when he pulled the injured Nigerian Babatunde off the pitch to resume play. Babatunde was stretchered and substituted off.
Nigeria’s Michael Babatunde leaves the field on a stretcher following an injury
Nigeria are now second in the group and only Iran can prevent them from qualifying on goal difference.
Match Facts:
Goals-Nigeria- Peter Odemwingie 29th minute (Also awarded Man Of The Match)
Bookings- Nigeria- John Obi Mikel 81st minute yellow. Bosnia and Herzegovina- Haris Medunjanin 6th minute yellow card
Substitutions- Nigeria- Shola Ameobi on for Ahmed Musa 65th minute and Ejike Uzoenyi on for Michael Babatunde 75th minute. Bosnia and Herzegovina- Vedad Ibisevic on for Izet Hajrovic 57th minute, Sejad Salihovic on for Senad Lulic 58th minute and Tino-Sven Susic on for Haris Medunjanin 64th minute.
Total Football 