The Super Eagles of Nigeria sauntered to a 2-0 win over Iceland in their second Group D World Cup game Friday to put themselves in a great position to attempt qualifying for the second round.
Ahmed Musa scored twice in the second half to give Nigeria a crucial win and put their campaign back on track after their opening day loss to Croatia.
Despite having been hyped as Africa’s best hope at the tournament Nigeria fell to a dismal start, losing 2-0 to Croatia and rendering this afternoon’s game a must win.
And after a limp first half Nigeria sprung to life in the second half, with their nimble frontline of Kelechi Iheanacho and Ahmed Musa bothering Iceland with their pace on the break.
Musa scored first in the 49th minute after starting a counter attack in Nigeria’s half, running over half the length of the pitch then controlling Moses’ cross with a superb first touch and firing it past Iceland’s goalkeeper.
Iceland could not respond to going behind and Nigeria kept up their pressure with Musa remaining their toughest threat, striking the bar with a fierce drive midway through the half.
He scored again in the 75th minute after rounding the Icelandic goalie and two other defenders to slot into a near empty net.
Gyilfi Sigurdsson missed a penalty late on to guarantee Nigeria’s victory.
The Super Eagles play Argentina in their final group game Tuesday and could advance with simply a draw against the misfiring Albiceleste.