Emmanuel Babayaro hails Nigeria’s performance vs. Iceland

Emmanuel Babayaro has praised Nigeria following their 2-0 victory over Iceland in Friday’s World Cup tie.

After they went down to Croatia in their opening game, their third consecutive loss, the three-time African champions turned out in style against Heimir Hallgrimsson’s men, with Ahmed Musa grabbing the two all-important goals.

The victory leapfrogged the West Africans to the second spot in the Group D standings with three points behind leaders, Croatia who boast of six points.

And the former Nigeria goalkeeper, thrilled that the Super Eagles listened to their fans after a lacklustre performance against the Blazers, has applauded the commanding display.

“At least we can heave a sigh of relief after the Croatia game. We had a good performance against Iceland,” Babayaro told Goal.

“For me, I am happy they listen to the voices of the supporters back home who were calling on the NFF and telling them what the Super Eagles have done wrong [in the first game].

“It is a team and so we can always improve. I am excited with the victory like many other Nigerians absolutely”

Ahead of their encounter with La Albiceleste on Tuesday, Babayaro is confident of Gernot Rohr’s men winning the encounter.

Nevertheless, he has charged the team to work on setpieces – through which they have conceded a number of goals recently, while also urging them to be more tactically disciplined.

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“Nigeria must work more on deadball situation, set pieces. We should be more conscious and be tactically disciplined against the Argentines,” he continued.

“Argentina are no match for Nigeria and for me, they are never a threat, the only team I knew will be a threat is Croatia and that is the only team that has caused us damage up till this moment.

“Without Lionel Messi the Argentines are ordinary. Nigeria just need to be very disciplined against them.

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“I believe with the win against Iceland, we should be able to conveniently dispose the Argentines and move on to the second round.”

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