The 2014 World Cup preparations were in full swing for Nigeria, with a friendly match against Italy, the 2006 world champions. The match took place at Fulham Stadium in London, featuring star-studded lineups from both teams.
Italy, coming off a tense friendly against Germany that ended in a 1-1 draw, aimed to secure a victory in their second November match. Coach Cesare Prandelli expressed the intention to make changes and test new players in the lineup.
Similarly, Nigeria’s coach, Stephen Keshi, announced that the players who started against Ethiopia in the World Cup qualifier were not expected to be in the starting XI for the friendly against Italy. Changes included Austin Ejide taking Vincent Enyeama’s place in goal.
The likely Eagles lineup included:
- Goalkeeper: Austin Ejide
- Defenders: Solomon Kwambe, Benjamin Francis, Godfrey Oboabona, Azubuike Egwuekwe
- Midfielders: Ogenyi Onazi, Mikel Obi, Nnamdi Oduamadi
- Forwards: Victor Moses, Bright Dike, Shola Ameobi
The friendly match against Italy provided an opportunity for both teams to fine-tune their strategies and test new combinations before heading to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
