Nigeria Set for World Cup Debut Against Iran in Group F
Nigeria becomes the third African nation to kick off their 2014 World Cup campaign, facing Iran in an eagerly anticipated Group F clash.
Coach Stephen Keshi has named a strong starting eleven for the Super Eagles, with veteran midfielder John Obi Mikel leading the midfield. Upfront, Emmanuel Emenike will spearhead the attack, supported by the pace and skill of Ahmed Musa.
Nigeria’s lineup:
Enyeama – Ambrose, Oboabona, Omeruo, Oshaniwa – Obi Mikel, Onazi, Azeez, Moses – Musa, Emenike
Iran, coached by Carlos Queiroz, will rely on a disciplined defensive setup led by goalkeeper Haghighi and defenders Montazeri and Hosseini. Their midfield, anchored by captain Javad Nekounam, aims to stifle Nigeria’s attacking threat, with forwards Ghoochannejhad and Heydari tasked with breaking through the opposition’s defence.
Iran’s lineup:
Haghighi – Montazeri, Hosseini, Sadeghi, Pooladi – Hajsafi, Nekounam, Teymourian, Dejagah – Ghoochannejhad, Heydari
The match promises to be a tactical battle, with Nigeria eager to continue Africa’s strong showing at the tournament following the earlier debuts of Cameroon and Ivory Coast.
Kick-off is imminent, with fans hoping for an exciting start to Group F’s action.
