Joe Apu
Nigeria and England will today revive their rivalry in what has been described as Nigeria’s biggest challenge heading to the FIFA World Cup 2018.
However, Nigeria’s new boy in attack, Simon Nwankwo, has admitted that it would be a tough encounter.
The newly capped Super Eagles’ striker, believes the friendly against the Three Lions of England at Wembley will offer the Eagles an opportunity to showcase their strength ahead of the World Cup, which kicks off in 14 days.
The FC Crotone striker said although the game would be a tough one, he believes Nigeria has what it takes to put up a good showing against the former world champions.
“For me, the England game is just another opportunity for us to continue our preparations towards the World Cup and keep improving as individuals and as a team. Hopefully, we will get one over them on Saturday.
“The game will be a difficult one because they parade some of the best legs in the English Premier League, but we also have guys who have played there and are still playing there, so we will put up a good fight and come out with a victory,” Simy concluded.
The 26-year-old striker earned his first cap against DR Congo earlier this week and will be hoping to earn his second when Nigeria takes on England at Wembley.
England Manager, Gareth Southgate’s having named his provisional 23-man squad for this summer’s finals in Russia, will be under pressure to impress in England’s final home game at the national stadium before the tournament.
Southgate will be confident of a win with a talented young squad following a pain-free qualification process, but the Super Eagles will want to make a statement with a promising squad of their own.
England and Nigeria have faced each other twice: the two teams drew 0-0 at the 2002 World Cup, while the Three Lions won a friendly 1-0 back in 1994.
Nigeria have a travelling squad of 25 players, however, this will be cut to 23 players on Monday’s deadline.
From a Premier League perspective, there are a few recognisable faces on show with John Obi Mikel, Victor Moses, Ahmed Musa, Kelechi Iheanacho and Alex Iwobi and are all set to feature for the Eagles.