The Grand
opening ceremony of the 2014 World Cup that was graced by pop star Jennifer
Lopez, Latino rapper Pitbull and Brazil’s own Leitte was subsequently followed
by an highly entertaining and controversial opening fixture that featured host
nation (Brazil) and Croatia – despite the overwhelming atmosphere that was
expected of an event of this magnitude, I just could not get over the calamity
that has rocked our dear Super Eagles pre-tournament preparation.
Most of the
talking point of Nigeria’s pre-tournament has been the coach’s players
selection, the defensive frailties and the attacking impotency of the team among other.
WHY UZOENYI?
The recent
inclusion of Ejike Uzoenyi has also raised eyebrows from tactical conscious
minds - who perceived his inclusion simply as a nullification of the coach's
initial error.
Critically
examining the left-back position of the team, the inclusion of Uzoenyi a winger
rather than a natural left-back or a make-shift left-back has now raised
further questions begging for answers with respect to the vulnerability of the
Super Eagles defence. Specifically, all of the team’s three tune-up fixtures,
the performances of the backline of the team has been rather unconvincing,
thus, conceding four avoidable goals in these matches.
With the team
effectively left with Juwon Oshaniwa as the only recognized left-back, the
sparingly used defender could be inundated by the enormous task left behind by
first choice Echiejile as the prospect of facing world class players is
imminent. Oshaniwa was expectedly (considering the number of run-out he’s had
for the team) on a different wavelength as he churned out an under par
performance against the Stars and Stripes – reliance on incompetence at Brazil
looms.
IF NOT
UZOENYI, THEN WHO?
I am pretty
sure majority opinions on ex-Marseille left back Taye Taiwo (fomer Super Eagles
first choice left-back) are now been strengthened by Keshi's constant overlook.
His inclusion though, looks unfeasible.
However,
someone i think fits the bill perfectly ahead of the Enugu Ranger star is Inter
Milan midfielder Joel Obi. Initially, Obi was on the 30-man provisional list
and even had an impressive run-out in midfield in the draw against Scotland.
The versatile midfielder in his short career has had to play in various
positions, most notably as a left wing back at parent club; Inter Milan and at Parma
(loan) last season - impressive?
Handing a
call back to Obi to fill in for Elchiejile and subsequently starting in his
role at the mundial comes with great responsibility from our tactical astute
coach, as he would be expected to tweak his formation. A 3-4-3 or 3-5-3
formation would be expected to accomodate Obi on the left wing of defence.
One would ask
if the players can adapt? Yes, Victor Moses the lynchpin of the side rose to
stardom with ex-manager Roberto Martinez playing him either as a winger or off
the striker in these unpopular formations at Wigan. The squad as a whole had
shown in time past their willingness to perform regardless of the tactics
employed by the coach.
BUT WE'VE GOT
UZOENYI!
With much
emphasis laid on more defensive questions triggered by his inclusion, he his
undoubtedly a great addition to the team's lethargic attack. Osaze Odemwingie
who formerly usurped Ejike's spot according to coach Keshi - as Keshi stated
that both have similar style of play but apparently had to settle for
experience. So far, his (Osaze) overall input to the team can be likened to
"an opera singer who after getting married lost her voice."
Needless to
analyse Ejike's abilities as there was no other tourney to display it as the
CHAN 2013, the team lacked that creativity he possesses and will inevitably be
useful for the attacking department - as they've managed just 3 goals in three
of their warm-up matches.
In
conclusion, Ejike Uzoenyi's inclusion has contrasting effects on the team, but
what is inevitably certain is that his inclusion is likely to be beneficial to
3 parties (whether or not we have a good outing at the mundial); himself, his
club (Enugu Rangers) and his potential employer most likely at the expense of
160 million Super Eagles fans.
Article by Tolulope Olasoji
Follow him on twitter - @Tollexrism
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