AFRICAN CUP OF NATIONS QUALIFIERS: Benin vs Nigeria. Can the Squirrels tame the Super Eagles?
I definitely can't provide analysis on some Qualifier games going down during this International break without providing one involving my Beloved Country, Nigeria.
Currently sitting at the top of Group L which also have 2nd placed Benin Republic, 3rd placed Sierra Leone, and 4th placed Lesotho in it, Nigeria will take on Benin Republic in a cracker tie which could very much send either team into the African Cup of Nations, set to come up later this year.
A draw for the Super Eagles is enough to see them through, but you can bet the Squirrels won't be that easy to get past considering that they are just 1 point behind the Super Eagles, and will be desperate to be in a good position to secure a spot in this year's AFCON before their big game tie against 3rd place Sierra Leone.
Hmm, I am getting carried away already, let's proceed to the stats favoring both sides, shall we?
BENIN REPUBLIC:
- The Squirrels' current better impressive results in their last 6 games compared to the Super Eagles' is a huge stat that favors them.
They've gotten 3 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss compared to Nigeria's 2 wins, 3 draws, and 1 loss in as many games.
This should definitely provide some huge boost for them going into the game. - Michel Dussuyer's men also have the advantage of playing at home on their side.
They've won the last 2 games they've had here, and you will agree with me that Gernot Rohr and his men will most likely have a diffucult time here as well.
Let's move on to the Super Eagles, shall we?
NIGERIA:
- Gernot Rohr's men impressive "head to head" results over Michel Dusseyer's men is one stat that can't be overlooked in favor of them.
They've won all 4 previous meetings between both sides.
You can definitely bet the Squirrels won't put this stat aside.
CONCLUSION:
Based on the stats before us, you and I will agree that it is most likely the Squirrels will come out victors in this game.
However, a draw is also a very possible outcome which will be fair to both sides.
Your thoughts and predictions are hugely appreciated as always.
Love always from your Football Analyst and Writer, IbkDaGreat.