Team profile: Nigeria

1.2204469-766176480 — Victor Moses Image Credit: AFP

Appearances: 5
Best finish: Round of 16 at 1994 USA World Cup
Manager: Gernot Rohr
Star player: Victor Moses

They were in danger of missing out in qualifying, changing managers several times, until Gernot Rohr took over in August 2016. In the end, they qualified comfortably with a game to spare despite being drawn with Cameroon, Algeria and Zambia.

Victor Moses, who has revitalised his career at Chelsea, was the top scorer in qualifying with three goals in just four matches. Moses was part of the team that won the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and he also played at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

Ahmed Musa had shown lot of promise at CSKA Moscow and that earned him a move to 2015/16 Premier League champions Leicester City, but having spent most of the time on the bench, in January returned to CSKA on loan in the hopes of gaining more game time.

Leicester also have two other Nigerian internationals on the books: forward Kelechi Iheanacho, formerly of Manchester City, and defensive midfielder Wilfred Ndidi – both of whom are young but more than capable of making their mark at Russia 2018.

Alex Iwobi of Arsenal is another big name that will lead the flight of the Super Eagles. Iwobi, who played for England's youth teams, has opted to play for the country of his ancestors. Under Rohr, Nigeria have developed into a good counter-attacking side with a sturdy defence and the calm presence of John Obi Mikel to funnel balls to the attack.

Russia will be Nigeria’s sixth appearance at the Finals since debuting in 1994, the team’s best result is reaching the round of 16. At USA ’94 the team were knocked out by Italy, despite leading until the 89th minute, before Roberto Baggio rescued the favourites by scoring the equaliser and then grabbing the winner in extra time.

Then in France ’98, Nigeria went on to the knockout stage once again but this time they were shown the door by Denmark 4-1. In 2014 Nigeria, with Musa and Peter Odemwingie, faced France in the round of 16 and lost after a goal by Paul Pogba and an own goal by Everton man Joseph Yobo.