The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Iceland

  • Iceland Coach tries hands on officiating

     

    Iceland coach Heimir Hallgrimsson is a man of many parts. The part time dentist turned football coach has returned to his hometown of Vestmannaeyjar and is trying his hands on officiating just three days after his young team exited the world cup in Russia.  Hallgrimsson was seen at the centre handling children’s football tournament, an indication that Iceland with a population of just 337,780 is working hard on catch them young program and will be putting the experience earned at their first ever world cup appearance to good use.

    Iceland’s group stage exit was sealed on Tuesday after their defeat by Croatia was followed by Argentina’s win over Nigeria.

    There was to be no repeat of their heroics at Euro 2016 where they dumped England out in the last-16 before losing to hosts France at the quarter-final stage.

    Despite the early exit, Hallgrimsson was full of praise of the efforts of his players as they became the smallest nation to ever qualify for the tournament.

    ‘I’m so proud, not just of the players but also the staff, the training team, everyone with the FA, I’m in the best job in the world and have very good people around me,’ he said.

    Hallgrimsson who prior to the world cup had managed mostly female teams in his hometown, is not clear what his next discussion with the FA would be, but revealed that they both agree that the Nation’s outing in Russia is worthy of commendation.

    ‘We have to sit down and digest what the next step will be, both for the FA and me, but I think we can be proud of this World Cup and I think we have been praised for our performance in this tournament.’

    Iceland played three matches drew one and lost two conceding five goals, scoring two.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Exhibit team spirit against Argentina – Chukwu

    Christian Chukwu, former coach of the Super Eagles, has urged the Super Eagles to exhibit team spirit to overcome Argentina on June 26 at the ongoing FIFA World Cup in Russia.

    Chukwu, who gave the advice in an interview with our reporters in Abuja on Monday, said that team spirit was what the Nigerian side needed to advance to the round of 16 in the tournament.

    Chukwu, who was also former captain of the Green Eagles, described the mood of the team against Iceland as impressive and urged them to hold on to it.

    Read Also: Chukwu urges Eagles to be aggressive, creative to overcome Iceland

    “If the Super Eagles should come all out in the manner and spirit they played Iceland, then the six points is already theirs. “We should target the six points, nothing more, nothing less in order to qualify,” Chukwu said.

    The former coach, who commended the Super Eagles for restoring hope of Nigerians with their last outing, said that there was no reason not to crush Argentina.

    According to him, the team is just waking up from their slumber, adding that Nigerians needed more results. Chukwu also restated his belief in the ability of the Gernot Rohr boys to get to the round 16 in the tournament.

    The Super Eagles will face Argentina in their last Group D match at Saint Petersburg.

    NAN

  • Obaseki hails Super Eagles’ triumph over Iceland

    The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has praised the Super Eagles for their 2-0 victory over Iceland, on Friday evening in the ongoing 2018 FIFA World Cup tournament in Russia.

    Obaseki, who lauded the brilliant performance of the attack led by Ahmed Musa, said the team restored the hope of Nigerians in the campaign for a place of pride in the soccer mundial.

    “The Super Eagles’ exceptional performance against Iceland shows the true Nigerian spirit, that when we are committed to a task, we would give it our all, to succeed,” the Governor said.

    Read Also:Ekweremadu hails Super Eagles on victory over Iceland

    He urged members of the team not to rest on their oars as they prepare for the last group game against Argentina on Tuesday, June 26, adding, “All that is required of the players is to keep their eyes on the trophy and approach the game with Argentina with a high sense of commitment to national duty.”

    Obaseki reiterated that Nigerians have the team in their prayers and hopeful that the team will do the country proud by qualifying for the next round of 16 and go even further to claim the highly prized trophy.

    “The current Super Eagles team is made up of young and talented players who have distinguished themselves in their various teams, home and abroad. With their performance against Iceland, they have shown determination to excel in Russia,” he added.

    The Super Eagles are tipped to qualify for the next round of 16 in the month-long soccer event, after their victory over Iceland which earned the team three points behind Croatia with six points. Argentina and Iceland are below on the table with one point each.

     

  • Full Time: Nigeria 2 – 0 Iceland: Magnificent Musa Scores Twice

    • FT: Nigeria 2-0 Iceland
    • Musa scores twice
    • Sigurdsson misses late penalty
    • Musa, Iheanacho start for Nigeria

    That’s it! Ahmed Musa is the matchwinner and Group D is wide open!

    Croatia are through – but a big showdown between Argentina and Nigeria awaits on Tuesday.

    Live Updates Below(Text)
    90+7′
    That’s it! The referee blows the final whistle
    90+7′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 57%, Iceland: 43%.
    90+7′
    A shot by Alex Iwobi is blocked
    90+7′
    William Troost-Ekong could cost his team a goal after a defensive blunder.
    90+6′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    90+6′
    William Troost-Ekong relieves the pressure with a clearance
    90+6′
    Gylfi Sigurdsson puts in a dangerous cross…
    90+6′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in their own half of the field
    90+6′
    John Obi Mikel comes back onto the field.
    90+5′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    90+5′
    The game is restarted
    90+5′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 57%, Iceland: 43%.
    90+5′
    It doesn’t look good here as John Obi Mikel is injured and is taken off the field to receive medical treatment.
    90+4′
    John Obi Mikel is down injured and receives medical treatment on the field.
    90+4′
    Play has been stopped because there is a player lying on the pitch.
    90+4′
    Bjoern Sigurdarson from Iceland tries to head the ball to a team mate, but the keeper comes out and claims it.
    90+4′
    Birkir Saevarsson from Iceland directs a ball squarely in the box, but it’s intercepted by an opponent player.
    90+3′
    Iceland is in control of the ball.
    90+3′
    Nigeria is trying to create something here.
    90+2′
    Nigeria is in control of the ball.
    90+2′
    Kari Arnason from Iceland goes a bit too far there as the pulls down Odion Ighalo
    90+2′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the left side of the pitch in their own half of the field
    90+1′
    Iceland is in control of the ball.
    90+1′
    The fourth official shows there are 6 minute(s) of time to be added
    90+1′
    Goal kick for Nigeria
    90′
    Oghenekaro Etebo is leaving the field to be replaced by Alex Iwobi in a tactical substitution.
    90′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 59%, Iceland: 41%.
    90′
    A chance presents itself to Sverrir Ingi Ingason from Iceland but his header goes wide
    90′
    Rurik Gislason puts in a dangerous cross…
    90′
    The referee signals a free kick as Oghenekaro Etebo from Nigeria trips Birkir Saevarsson
    90′
    Iceland is trying to create something here.
    89′
    A shot by Onyinye Ndidi is blocked
    89′
    Sverrir Ingi Ingason is penalised for pushing Odion Ighalo
    88′
    William Troost-Ekong relieves the pressure with a clearance
    88′
    Alfred Finnbogason releases a shot, it’s parried by Francis Uzoho but he can’t hold onto it…
    88′
    Ari Skulason of Iceland passes the ball to a team mate.
    88′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    87′
    The captain is forced to give away his armband, because he is leaving the field.
    87′
    Aron Gunnarsson is leaving the field to be replaced by Ari Skulason in a tactical substitution.
    87′
    Ahmed Musa from Nigeria is a contender for Man of the Match after a great performance today
    87′
    Safe hands from Hannes Thor Halldorsson as he comes out and claims the ball
    87′
    Odion Ighalo from Nigeria takes the ball forward trying to make something happen…
    86′
    Kenneth Omeruo relieves the pressure with a clearance
    86′
    Birkir Saevarsson puts in a dangerous cross…
    86′
    Iceland is having a good opportunity to score.
    85′
    Nigeria take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    85′
    Goal kick for Iceland
    85′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 59%, Iceland: 41%.
    85′
    Kelechi Iheanacho is leaving the field to be replaced by Odion Ighalo in a tactical substitution.
    84′
    Iceland is trying to create something here.
    83′
    Goal kick for Nigeria
    83′
    HE MISSES – Gylfi Sigurdsson takes the penalty, but the shot goes wide
    82′
    The game is restarted
    82′
    PENALTY – Tyronne Ebuehi from Nigeria concedes a penalty for tripping Alfred Finnbogason.
    80′
    The referee has stopped the game and is going to watch a video review for a situation.
    80′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 58%, Iceland: 42%.
    80′
    Bjoern Sigurdarson from Iceland directs the ball behind the defence, but it’s intercepted by an opponent player.
    80′
    What a game. It’s an intense and good playing game from both sides.
    79′
    A shot by William Troost-Ekong is blocked
    79′
    Hoerdur Magnusson relieves the pressure with a clearance
    79′
    Oghenekaro Etebo from Nigeria swings in the corner from the left.
    79′
    Rurik Gislason clears the danger but is forced to give away a corner…
    78′
    Oghenekaro Etebo from Nigeria directs a ball squarely in the box, but it’s intercepted by an opponent player.
    78′
    Nigeria is having a good opportunity to score.
    78′
    The referee signals a free kick as Birkir Bjarnason from Iceland trips Kenneth Omeruo
    77′
    Iceland is having a good opportunity to score.
    77′
    Today’s attendance is 40904
    77′
    Kari Arnason from Iceland tries to head the ball to a team mate, but the keeper comes out and claims it.
    75′
    Kenneth Omeruo provided the assist for the goal.
    75′
    G O O O A A A L – Ahmed Musa with the goal!
    75′
    Ahmed Musa from Nigeria takes the ball forward trying to make something happen…
    75′
    Kenneth Omeruo sends a long ball upfield.
    75′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 58%, Iceland: 42%.
    75′
    Goal kick for Iceland
    75′
    Victor Moses from Nigeria sends an effort wide of target
    74′
    CROSSBAR! Ahmed Musa misses a clear chance as his shot hits the crossbar! That was a sitter!
    74′
    A shot by Kelechi Iheanacho is blocked
    74′
    Nigeria is having a good opportunity to score.
    73′
    Iceland is in control of the ball.
    72′
    Goal kick for Iceland
    72′
    What a miss! Leon Balogun has a great opportunity to score, but sends his header wide of goal!
    72′
    Kelechi Iheanacho from Nigeria swings in the corner from the right.
    72′
    Kari Arnason clears the danger but is forced to give away a corner…
    72′
    Victor Moses puts in a dangerous cross…
    71′
    Nigeria start a counter attack
    71′
    Hoerdur Magnusson could cost his team a goal after a defensive blunder.
    71′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    71′
    Jon Dadi Boedvarsson is leaving the field to be replaced by Bjoern Sigurdarson in a tactical substitution.
    70′
    A chance presents itself to William Troost-Ekong from Nigeria but his header goes wide
    70′
    Victor Moses puts in a dangerous cross…
    70′
    Sverrir Ingi Ingason relieves the pressure with a clearance
    70′
    Oghenekaro Etebo from Nigeria swings in the corner from the left.
    70′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 58%, Iceland: 42%.
    70′
    Rurik Gislason clears the danger but is forced to give away a corner…
    68′
    Iceland is having a good opportunity to score.
    67′
    Nigeria take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in their own half of the field
    67′
    Iceland is having a good opportunity to score.
    66′
    Nigeria is in control of the ball.
    66′
    Goal kick for Iceland
    66′
    Victor Moses from Nigeria sends an effort wide of target
    66′
    Nigeria is having a good opportunity to score.
    65′
    Ragnar Sigurdsson is injured and is replaced by Sverrir Ingi Ingason.
    65′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 58%, Iceland: 42%.
    64′
    Nigeria is trying to create something here.
    63′
    Safe hands from Francis Uzoho as he comes out and claims the ball
    63′
    Gylfi Sigurdsson crosses the ball into the box from the free kick
    62′
    The referee signals a free kick as Onyinye Ndidi from Nigeria trips Rurik Gislason
    62′
    Iceland is trying to create something here.
    62′
    Kelechi Iheanacho from Nigeria passes the ball in the box, but it’s intercepted by an opponent player.
    61′
    Nigeria is having a good opportunity to score.
    61′
    Nigeria is trying to create something here.
    62′
    Kelechi Iheanacho from Nigeria passes the ball in the box, but it’s intercepted by an opponent player.
    61′
    Nigeria is having a good opportunity to score.
    61′
    Nigeria is trying to create something here.
    60′
    The referee signals a free kick as Rurik Gislason from Iceland trips Kenneth Omeruo
    60′
    Gylfi Sigurdsson from Iceland directs the ball behind the defence, but it’s intercepted by an opponent player.
    60′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 58%, Iceland: 42%.
    60′
    Victor Moses relieves the pressure with a clearance
    59′
    Gylfi Sigurdsson from Iceland swings in the corner from the left.
    59′
    Victor Moses clears the danger but is forced to give away a corner…
    59′
    Hoerdur Magnusson from Iceland tries to pick out a team-mate in the area but his cross is blocked by an opponent.
    59′
    William Troost-Ekong relieves the pressure with a clearance
    59′
    Hoerdur Magnusson puts in a dangerous cross…
    59′
    John Obi Mikel relieves the pressure with a clearance
    58′
    Hoerdur Magnusson puts in a dangerous cross…
    58′
    Kenneth Omeruo relieves the pressure with a clearance
    58′
    Birkir Saevarsson puts in a dangerous cross…
    58′
    Hoerdur Magnusson relieves the pressure with a clearance
    58′
    Oghenekaro Etebo puts in a dangerous cross…
    58′
    Oghenekaro Etebo from Nigeria takes a short corner kick from the left.
    57′
    Danger as Onyinye Ndidi from Nigeria tries his luck from outside the box. The shot is deflected and forces Hannes Thor Halldorsson into an uncomfortable save. Corner kick.
    57′
    Nigeria is having a good opportunity to score.
    56′
    Nigeria take a throw-in at the left side of the pitch in their own half of the field
    56′
    Iceland is trying to create something here.
    56′
    Danger averted there as Tyronne Ebuehi from Nigeria clears the danger with a good tackle
    56′
    Great skill from Gylfi Sigurdsson as he dribbles past his opponents
    55′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the left side of the pitch in their own half of the field
    55′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 59%, Iceland: 41%.
    55′
    The referee signals a free kick as Gylfi Sigurdsson from Iceland trips Onyinye Ndidi
    54′
    Ragnar Sigurdsson comes back onto the field.
    54′
    The game is restarted
    53′
    It doesn’t look good here as Ragnar Sigurdsson is injured and is taken off the field to receive medical treatment.
    50′
    Ragnar Sigurdsson is down injured and receives medical treatment on the field.
    50′
    Play has been stopped because there is a player lying on the pitch.
    50′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 60%, Iceland: 40%.
    49′
    Victor Moses provided the assist for the goal.
    49′
    G O O O A A A L – Ahmed Musa with the goal!
    49′
    Victor Moses puts in a dangerous cross…
    49′
    Victor Moses from Nigeria takes the ball forward trying to make something happen…
    49′
    Nigeria start a counter attack
    49′
    Kenneth Omeruo relieves the pressure with a clearance
    49′
    A player from Iceland takes a long throw from right side of the pitch into the opponent’s box
    48′
    Great vision by Kenneth Omeruo from Nigeria as he stops a promising attack with an interception.
    48′
    Jon Dadi Boedvarsson from Iceland tries to head the ball to a team mate, but it’s intercepted by an opponent player.
    48′
    Iceland is trying to create something here.
    48′
    Nigeria take a throw-in at the left side of the pitch in their own half of the field
    47′
    Iceland is in control of the ball.
    47′
    Nigeria is in control of the ball.
    47′
    Safe hands from Hannes Thor Halldorsson as he comes out and claims the ball
    46′
    Victor Moses sends a long ball upfield.
    46′
    Oghenekaro Etebo shoots from outside the box, but Hannes Thor Halldorsson has it under control
    46′
    Oghenekaro Etebo from Nigeria takes the ball forward trying to make something happen…
    46′
    Brian Idowu is leaving the field to be replaced by Tyronne Ebuehi in a tactical substitution.
    46′
    The second half is underway
    45+3′
    It’s over! The referee blows for half time
    45+2′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 61%, Iceland: 39%.
    45+2′
    Goal kick for Nigeria
    45+2′
    A chance presents itself to Jon Dadi Boedvarsson from Iceland but his header goes wide
    45+2′
    Gylfi Sigurdsson from Iceland swings in the corner from the left.
    45+2′
    William Troost-Ekong clears the danger but is forced to give away a corner..
    40′
    Iceland is having a good opportunity to score.
    40′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 59%, Iceland: 41%.
    40′
    Safe hands from Hannes Thor Halldorsson as he comes out and claims the ball
    40′
    Onyinye Ndidi puts in a dangerous cross…
    39′
    Nigeria is having a good opportunity to score.
    39′
    Gylfi Sigurdsson from Iceland directs the ball behind the defence, but it’s intercepted by an opponent player.
    39′
    Goal kick for Iceland
    39′
    Ahmed Musa from Nigeria crosses the ball, but it goes out for a goal kick.
    39′
    Jon Dadi Boedvarsson relieves the pressure with a clearance
    38′
    A player from Nigeria takes a long throw from right side of the pitch into the opponent’s box
    38′
    Birkir Saevarsson relieves the pressure with a clearance
    38′
    Kelechi Iheanacho crosses the ball into the box from the free kick
    37′
    Hoerdur Magnusson is penalised for pushing Victor Moses
    37′
    Alfred Finnbogason is penalised for pushing William Troost-Ekong
    36′
    Onyinye Ndidi relieves the pressure with a clearance
    36′
    A player from Iceland takes a long throw from left side of the pitch into the opponent’s box
    36′
    Leon Balogun relieves the pressure with a clearance
    36′
    Birkir Saevarsson puts in a dangerous cross…
    36′
    Both sides are struggling to open up the opponent’s defense
    35′
    Iceland is in control of the ball.
    35′
    Nigeria take a throw-in at the left side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    35′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 61%, Iceland: 39%.
    35′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 61%, Iceland: 39%.
    35′
    Goal kick for Nigeria
    34′
    Birkir Bjarnason from Iceland fails to connect properly on the volley and sends the ball wide of target
    34′
    Victor Moses relieves the pressure with a clearance
    34′
    Gylfi Sigurdsson puts in a dangerous cross…
    34′
    Iceland is having a good opportunity to score.
    33′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    33′
    The referee signals a free kick as Ahmed Musa from Nigeria trips Gylfi Sigurdsson
    33′
    Iceland is in control of the ball.
    32′
    Nigeria is trying to create something here.
    32′
    Goal kick for Iceland
    31′
    Oghenekaro Etebo crosses the ball into the box from the free kick
    31′
    Obstruction as Ragnar Sigurdsson cuts off the run of Kelechi Iheanacho. A free-kick is awarded.
    33′
    Iceland is in control of the ball.
    32′
    Nigeria is trying to create something here.
    32′
    Goal kick for Iceland
    31′
    Oghenekaro Etebo crosses the ball into the box from the free kick
    31′
    Obstruction as Ragnar Sigurdsson cuts off the run of Kelechi Iheanacho. A free-kick is awarded.
    30′
    Iceland is trying to create something here.
    30′
    Nigeria take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    30′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 57%, Iceland: 43%.
    29′
    Goal kick for Iceland
    29′
    The match is being played at a slow tempo with neither side having the upper hand
    28′
    Nigeria is in control of the ball.
    28′
    Nigeria is in control of the ball.
    27′
    Safe hands from Francis Uzoho as he comes out and claims the ball
    27′
    Jon Dadi Boedvarsson puts in a dangerous cross…
    27′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    27′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    26′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in their own half of the field
    26′
    John Obi Mikel from Nigeria crosses the ball but it is nowhere near the intended target.
    26′
    Hoerdur Magnusson relieves the pressure with a clearance
    26′
    Ahmed Musa puts in a dangerous cross…
    27′
    Safe hands from Francis Uzoho as he comes out and claims the ball
    27′
    Jon Dadi Boedvarsson puts in a dangerous cross…
    27′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    27′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    26′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in their own half of the field
    26′
    John Obi Mikel from Nigeria crosses the ball but it is nowhere near the intended target.
    26′
    Hoerdur Magnusson relieves the pressure with a clearance
    26′
    Ahmed Musa puts in a dangerous cross…
    24′
    Kenneth Omeruo is penalised for pushing Rurik Gislason
    23′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the left side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    23′
    Nigeria is in control of the ball.
    23′
    The referee signals a free kick as Hoerdur Magnusson from Iceland trips Ahmed Musa
    22′
    Rurik Gislason from Iceland tries to pick out a team-mate in the area but his cross is blocked by an opponent.
    22′
    Leon Balogun relieves the pressure with a clearance
    22′
    Gylfi Sigurdsson from Iceland swings in the corner from the right.
    22′
    Victor Moses clears the danger but is forced to give away a corner…
    22′
    Poor play by Francis Uzoho as his weak attempt to clear the ball puts his side under pressure
    22′
    Gylfi Sigurdsson from Iceland swings in the corner from the left.
    22′
    Victor Moses clears the danger but is forced to give away a corner…
    21′
    A shot by Birkir Bjarnason is blocked
    21′
    Poor play by Francis Uzoho as his weak attempt to clear the ball puts his side under pressure
    21′
    Aron Gunnarsson puts in a dangerous cross…
    21′
    William Troost-Ekong relieves the pressure with a clearance
    21′
    A player from Iceland takes a long throw from right side of the pitch into the opponent’s box
    20′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 58%, Iceland: 42%.
    19′
    Nigeria take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in their own half of the field
    19′
    Victor Moses from Nigeria passes the ball in the box, but it’s intercepted by an opponent player.
    19′
    Nigeria is trying to create something here.
    18′
    Nigeria is in control of the ball.
    18′
    Nigeria take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    18′
    Ragnar Sigurdsson relieves the pressure with a clearance
    18′
    Onyinye Ndidi puts in a dangerous cross…
    17′
    Hoerdur Magnusson relieves the pressure with a clearance
    17′
    A player from Nigeria takes a long throw from right side of the pitch into the opponent’s box
    17′
    Nigeria take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    17′
    Kari Arnason relieves the pressure with a clearance
    17′
    Victor Moses from Nigeria chips the ball into the penalty box.
    16′
    Ragnar Sigurdsson relieves the pressure with a clearance
    16′
    Brian Idowu puts in a dangerous cross…
    16′
    Ragnar Sigurdsson relieves the pressure with a clearance
    16′
    Brian Idowu puts in a dangerous cross…
    16′
    Nigeria is having a good opportunity to score.
    15′
    The referee signals a free kick as John Obi Mikel from Nigeria trips Gylfi Sigurdsson
    15′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 67%, Iceland: 33%.
    15′
    John Obi Mikel relieves the pressure with a clearance
    14′
    A player from Iceland takes a long throw from left side of the pitch into the opponent’s box
    14′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the left side of the pitch in their own half of the field
    14′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the left side of the pitch in their own half of the field
    13′
    Iceland is in control of the ball.
    13′
    Nigeria is having a good opportunity to score.
    13′
    Nigeria take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    13′
    The game is restarted
    12′
    Play has been stopped because there is a player lying on the pitch.
    12′
    Nigeria take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    12′
    Nigeria is trying to create something here.
    11′
    The referee signals a free kick as Rurik Gislason from Iceland trips Oghenekaro Etebo
    11′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the left side of the pitch in their own half of the field
    11′
    Goal kick for Iceland
    11′
    Nigeria is trying to create something here.
    10′
    Nigeria is in control of the ball.
    10′
    Nigeria take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    10′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 59%, Iceland: 41%.
    9′
    Nigeria take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in their own half of the field
    9′
    Iceland is in control of the ball.
    9′
    Iceland take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    8′
    Kenneth Omeruo from Nigeria tries to head the ball to a team mate, but the keeper comes out and claims it.
    8′
    A player from Nigeria takes a long throw from left side of the pitch into the opponent’s box
    7′
    Hoerdur Magnusson relieves the pressure with a clearance
    7′
    Kelechi Iheanacho from Nigeria swings in the corner from the right.
    7′
    Hoerdur Magnusson clears the danger but is forced to give away a corner…
    7′
    Victor Moses from Nigeria tries to pick out a team-mate in the area but his cross is blocked by an opponent.
    7′
    Nigeria take a throw-in at the right side of the pitch in the opponent’s half of the field
    6′
    Nigeria is in control of the ball.
    6′
    Gylfi Sigurdsson shoots from outside the box, but Francis Uzoho has it under control
    5′
    Goal kick for Nigeria
    5′
    Rurik Gislason from Iceland takes the ball forward trying to make something happen…
    5′
    Iceland start a counter attack
    5′
    Ball possession: Nigeria: 20%, Iceland: 80%.
    4′
    Nigeria is having a good opportunity to score.
    4′
    Nigeria is in control of the ball.
    4′
    Safe hands from Francis Uzoho as he comes out and claims the ball
    4′
    Gylfi Sigurdsson from Iceland swings in the corner from the left.
    3′
    The resulting free-kick is taken by Gylfi Sigurdsson and his strike forces a good save from Francis Uzoho. It’s a corner
    2′
    Brian Idowu is penalised for pushing Kari Arnason
    2′
    Onyinye Ndidi relieves the pressure with a clearance
    1′
    A player from Iceland takes a long throw from right side of the pitch into the opponent’s box
    1′
    Nigeria kick-off, and the game is underway.
    The referee starts the match
    Welcome to Volgograd Arena where we are eagerly awaiting the arrival of the two teams

    ICELAND TEAM NEWS

    Team to play Nigeria: Halldorsson, Magnusson, R Sigurdsson, Arnason, Saevarsson, Bjarnason, Gunnarsson, G Sigurdsson, Gislason, Bodvarsson, Finnbogason.

    Subs: Schram, Runarsson, Ingason, Eyjolfsson, Skulason, Fridjonsson, Gudmundsson, Gudmundsson, Skulason, Hallfredsson, Traustason, Sigurdarson.

    NIGERIA TEAM NEWS

    Team to play Iceland: Uzoho, Omeruo, Ekong, Balogun, Idowu, Moses, Mikel, Ndidi, Etebo, Musa, Ihenacho.

    Subs: Ezenwa, Akpeyi, Iwobi, Ebuehi, Shehu, Ighalo, Nwankwo, Onazi, Obi, Ogu, Awaziem, Echiejile.

    MATCH STATS

    • There has only been one previous meeting between Nigeria and Iceland, with the European side winning 3-0 in a friendly in August 1981.
    • All five of Nigeria’s wins at the World Cup have been against European sides.
    • Iceland drew their first ever World Cup game when they met Argentina. The last side to avoid defeat in both of their first two World Cup games were Senegal in 2002, while Croatia in 1998 were the last European side to do so.
    • After recording eight shots against Argentina in the first half of their first match, Iceland failed to register a single attempt on goal in the second 45 minutes.
    • Nigeria have lost each of their last three World Cup games. They last had a longer run of defeats in the competition between 1998 and 2002 (four games).

  • Nigeria vs. Iceland: Victory Only Option for Eagles

     

    Croatia on Thursday, handed Nigeria a lifeline following their clinical performance against Argentina.  For me, that was the most clinical display I have seen since the kick off of Russia 2018 nine days ago.

    The second being the impressive display by Portugal and Spain, but unlike the Croatian super show, the Portugal versus Spain encounter revolved largely around 5-time Balloon d’Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo.

    The Croatian lifeline is not only for Nigeria but also for Iceland.

    The Eagles have no other choice than to win today at the Volgograd Arena, if they hope to delay their flight out of Russia.

    The jubilation that greeted Argentina’s defeat especially among Nigerian supporters may translate to nothing if Eagles fail to win today.

    Let’s look at it this way.  Argentina and Iceland have a point each. Should the Eagles make the mistake of pulling a draw today, exit would have been signed, sealed and delivered.

    Under that scenario Iceland will be the better for it as they will go into the final group match against Croatia with two points in the kitty, and Nigeria will go into the last group tie against Argentina will just a point in the kitty. The last group match will thus become the deciding factor as to who joins Croatia in the round of 16.

    Croatia may choose to rest some of their players having already scaled through with six points in the bag.  If they do that and Iceland manages as little as a lone goal victory over Croatia they will advance with five points.  As for Argentina and Nigeria it will be end of the road regardless of what they play.

    If Argentina defeats Eagles they will end up at four points and vice versa.  However if Croatia decide to garner all the points available and defeat Iceland to earn 9 points, Iceland would end up with two points and the last tie between Argentina and Nigeria both of who will be on a point each can be anybody’s game and whoever earns the elusive three points fumbles into the group of 16.

    The technicalities and migraine involved in this last minute permutations are not indeed palatable.  The only way out is for Eagles to win today against Iceland.  No more, no less.

    Here are things Eagles must do and not do today:

    *Be ready for shot at goal from a reasonable distance. This can work as some goalkeepers have been caught napping.

    *Resist the temptation to blink when defending crosses, especially corner kicks which appear to have become a hard nut to  crack for African countries.

    *Maintain discipline no matter what. Should unprofessional tackles lead to red card or cards it will too bad for comfort.

    * If you must concede a goal, do it early or better still go for early goal. Like a commentator said during the tie between Australia and Denmark said, “The good thing about conceding early goal is that you have enough time to do something about it”

  • Iceland in trouble, Super Eagles on fire: Odegbami

    The Vikings of Iceland that held Argentina to a draw in the first game of Group D in the FIFA World Cup in Russia, will have it tougher with Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the crunch match starting at 4pm today.

    Chief Segun Odegbami, former Nigeria international, who held a pep talk with the Nigerian team in Volgograd on Thursday said made the prediction in a post on Facebook.

    Super Eagles will fight, said Odegbami about his impressions of the team that lost to Croatia 2-0.

    “I saw their spirit. They will fight like they have never fought before. When we parted to go and watch the Argentinian match on TV, both my Head and my Heart were in sync about expectations tomorrow – Iceland are in trouble”, wrote Odegbami.

    Read his full post:

    `’I am in Volgograd. I have just finished watching the final chapter of an unfolding drama in Group D of the World Cup. It is curtains for Argentina, because I do not see how they will survive their last match against Nigeria.

    “It was a rare privilege earlier this evening when, at the instance of Amaju Pinnick, I was given the rare privilege to address members of the Super Eagles at their dinner table, the only person to do so on the eve of their greatest challenge when they confront the Vikings of Iceland with all the pent up ‘anger’, energy, determination and motivation from the Croatian match.

    “It was a spirit lifting meeting that we had. I simply reminded them of their responsibility to ensure that they displayed the full version of the Nigerian do-or-die spirit. I reminded them also about their responsibility to the ordinary Nigerian on the street that is with them unconditionally foŕ as long as they give their best. I reminded them of their assured place in history if they could rise above the disappointment of their first match, win tomorrow and convert this moment of their greatest challenge into the moment of their greatest triumph.

    “I gave them the good wishes of all Nigerians and prayed with them for favour from the elements. It was a small contribution to their already bulging enthusiasm and confidence.

    “I saw their spirit. They will fight like they have never fought before. When we parted to go and watch the Argentinian match on TV, both my Head and my Heart were in sync about expectations tomorrow – Iceland are in trouble”.

  • Argentina 0-3 Croatia – shambolic Argentina put to sword

    • Argentina 0-3 Croatia (7pm)
    • Rebic scores after Caballero howler
    • Modric stunner makes it 2-0 (81)
    • Rakitic in injury-time (90+1)
    • Messi, Aguero in attack
    • Di Maria, Rojo, Biglia left out
    • Brozovic in for Kramaric
    • Croatia through if they win
    • Group D clash

     

    FT: Croatia are through to the last 16 of the World Cup after a stunning 3-0 victory in Nizhny Novgorod which leaves Argentina in serious danger of exiting at the group stage.

    Ante Rebic made the most of a Willy Caballero howler to open the scoring in the 53rd minute before Luka Modric curled in a sensational second (81) and Ivan Rakitic stroked in an injury-time third to secure his side’s passage to the knock-out stages.

    But after their opening 1-1 draw with Iceland, Argentina go into their final Group D game with Nigeria with only one point and their hopes of staying in Russia beyond the group stage are hanging by a thread.

     

    Preview

    Argentina is looking to rebound from a disappointing start to its World Cup after an opening-game draw with Iceland. Croatia was far from impressive in a 2-0 win over Nigeria, but it can take firm control of Group D with a win today.

    A Draw Result Favours Nigeria

    The permutation has started as the Super Eagles of Nigeria stumbled against Croatia in a disappointing start at the mundial.

    What will be the likely result from Argentina versus Croatia match that will put Nigeria in a better position ahead of their crucial match against Iceland on Friday?

    The best result that will keep Nigeria in contention is a draw between the two countries while hoping the three-time African champion will emerge victorious against their Iceland counterpart tomorrow.

    A draw would also suffice in this circumstance – meaning La Albiceleste would have two points after two games.

    Argentina, at the moment, are on a bad run of form – having not won any match in their last three at the World Cup finals. Their last victory was against Belgium at the quarterfinal stage in the 2014 edition.

    According to FIFA.com, Jorge Sampaoli is going to make changes to the starting 11, in what has been described as a must-win match.

    “Desperate for the win that will keep his side’s fate in their own hands, Sampaoli is set to ring the changes, both in terms of tactics and personnel,” reports Diego Zandrino.

    “His aim is to fashion a starting line-up that remains competitive but which can also play better football and penetrate the opposition defence down the flanks.

    “Speed of response and the ability to keep their shape will also be crucial for the Argentinians at the back, as will the need to sharpen their finishing.”

    For the Croats, a win or a draw would be good, as they will stay top of the group until Iceland play Nigeria on Friday.

  • Nigerians in Russia task Eagles to beat Iceland

    Nigerians in St. Petersburg have urged the Super Eagles to go all out for outright victory against Iceland in their second group D encounter on Friday at Volgograd.

    The Super Eagles had earlier suffered a 2 – 0 painful defeat in the hands of Vatreni of Croatia in their first match in Group D on Saturday at Kaliningrad stadium.

    The Nigerians told the News Agency of Nigeria, on Thursday, that the only way to redeem the team’s pre-tournament rating was for the Coach Garnet Rohr tutored side to come out strong against their opponents.

    Celestine Okonkwo, a Nigerian who is in Russia to witness the Mundial said that for Nigeria to remain in contention, the Eagles must up their game and beat Iceland outrightly.

    “Before the competition, a lot of people rated the team to do well, but since they fail to beat Croatia in the first game the only option now is to go all out for victory against Iceland.

    “It will not be too good for the Eagles to crash out of the competition in the first round of the tournament. It is better for the players and the coaching crew to work out a winning formula against their next opponents,’’ he said.

    Read Also: World Cup: Argentina tackles Haiti for Eagles

    Mohammed Abdullaih, another Nigerian, told NAN that the match against Iceland must be won by Super Eagles to redeem not only Nigeria’s image but also that of Africa.

    “After the exit of Egypt and Morocco from the competition, Nigeria must join Senegal to redeem the continent’s image by winning the match against Iceland tomorrow,’’ he said.

    According to him, the team needs to be more aggressive in their opponent’s goal area unlike what happened against Croatia in their first game to achieve their mission.

    Festus Ennahirre, another Nigerian who spoke to NAN, said that the only saving grace for the Eagles would be for the team to win the game against Iceland.

    “It will not only keep them in the competition but also enhance the team’s image and rating.

    “Prior to the competition, a lot of Nigerians at home and abroad expected much from the team, but after the scandalous 0-2 loss to Croatia they appeared disappointed.

    “So the only thing left now is for them to win,’’ the soccer fan said.

    He stressed that anything short of total victory against Iceland would not be acceptable to Nigerians and the followers of the team.

    NAN investigation in the team’s camp revealed that the technical crew led by Coach Rohr have been working hard to ensure that the Eagles come out victorious on Friday.

  • FG increases Eagles bonus to N5M to win Iceland

    The Federal Government has increased Super Eagles winning bonus to $15,000, about (N5M) ahead of their second group game against Iceland on Friday at the Volgograd Arena.

    The Sports Minister, Solomon Dalung who made this known said, the 50% increment from the initial $10,000 about (N3.5M) which was promised will go along way boost the team to a winning way.

    “It is unfortunate that we did not win, which would have served as a morale booster at the group stage, but we will not lose hope.

    “The Federal Government is doing its best to ensure that the Super Eagles excel in Russia. Even President Muhammadu Buhari took time out to motivate the players yesterday and to assure them of his unflinching support for the team.

    “I personally added $5,000 to their winning bonus to motivate the team, but we must still keep our hopes alive because this is just the beginning.

    “I urge the players to remain focused while the technical department will have to put heads together with the coach to salvage our next two matches against Iceland and Argentina. If we win our next matches against Iceland and Argentina, then we can qualify from the group.” he said.

    Dalung however called on Nigerians to continue to support the team regardless of the disappointing outing against Croatia.

    ”The Super Eagles are a work in progress. It’s a very young team and we are nurturing them for greater exploits, not only for now but also for the future. We are not giving any excuses but we must continue to rally round our team, irrespective of the result recorded on Saturday.

    “I appeal to Nigerians to rally behind the team and pray for them ahead of their next game against Iceland. I strongly believe that despite the disappointing start, the Super Eagles will come out strong from the group.”

    Nigeria currently sit at the bottom of Group D.

  • Team Iceland Identify with Carl Ikeme  ahead clash

     

    He may not have made it to the ongoing world cup in Russia due to circumstances beyond his control, but Nigeria international and Wolves goalkeeper, Carl Ikeme has not been forgotten.

    He is constantly being put in prayer not only by Nigerians but even by non Nigerians alike.  Another interesting part to this solidarity with Ikeme who contributed in no small measure to Nigeria’s qualification for the World cup came to the fore Monday as Super Eagles opponents come Friday,

    Iceland, took to the social media to express good wishes to the Nigeria international who was ruled out of the world after being diagnosed of leukemia. Prior to leaving to the World cup in Russia, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) went to visit the goalkeeper who has since been receiving treatment for the ailment.

    Iceland began their campaign at the World cup against Argentina and held them to a 1-1 draw contrary to initial predictions in some quarters that they will lose to Argentina.  In the post on Monday, Iceland players did not only display the number one shirt which is the jersey number of Carl Ikeme but also gave words of encouragement.”All of us in @footballiceland are with you @Carl_Ikeme ?❤️ Respect! Thank you. @footballiceland ?

    The Nigeria international has been out action since March 2017 after he was diagnosed with acute leaukemia

    Iceland national team has shown their support for Nigeria goalkeeper Carl Ikeme before both teams meet at the Volgograd Arena on Friday.

    Heimir Hallgrímsson’s side will take on the Super Eagles for their group D second fixture on Friday

    Ikeme made his international debut for Nigeria on 5 September 2015 against Tanzania in a 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualification game.

    Ikeme made three appearances early on in Nigeria’s successful qualification campaign for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, but could not go to the final tournament due to his cancer treatment, which manager Gernot Rohr called his greatest regret.