Croatia defeated the Super Eagles of Nigeria 2- 0 to move top of group D in the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
This is their first win in their opening match of a World Cup since 1998 in France.
Fans of the Super Eagles of Nigeria were left disappointed after losing to Croatia.
It was a highly anticipated group D game as the match between Argentina and Iceland played earlier ended 1-1 to the amazement of many.
Nigeria and Croatia went into today’s game knowing that a win for either side would see them top the group that has two times World champions, Argentina.
Nigeria started the game on a bright note, making good passes.
As the game went on, it became evident that the passes in the mid-field were not making the necessary impact.
There was no connection between the mid-field and attack as Odion Ighalo who was the main striker was isolated.
He lacked the capacity to track back and play with the mid-fielders while the captain, John Obi Mikel, was not mobile enough.
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In the 32nd minute Croatia scored through Peter Etebo’s own goal.
It was a corner kick by Luka Modric whipped into the box.
Mario Mandzukic got to the ball and played it wide.
Unfortunately it deflected into the net.
In the second half, Ighalo and Alex Iwobi were replaced with Kelechi Iheanacho and Ahmed Musa respectively.
That substitution brought pace into the Super Eagles game.
While they struggled for an equalizer, Troost Ekong made another costly mistake.
He brought down Mandzukic in the 18 yard box when a ball was launched into the box.
The referee pointed to the penalty spot.
Modric stepped up and converted it, making it 2-0.
As it stands, Croatia are top of the group while Nigeria are bottom with no point.
All hope is not lost for the Super Eagles as there are two more games to be played in the group stage.
Nigeria will face Iceland on June 22 in a must win game.
A win against Iceland will see Nigeria bag three points.
An African team is yet to win a match in Russia as Nigeria is now the third team to lose after Egypt and Morocco.
