FLASHBACK: Nigeria’s Greatest World Cup Moments
by Chinedu Okorie
Credit: www.goal.com
The world probably did not know what it was missing in international football until USA 94 when the Green Eagles now called the Super Eagles of Nigeria came on the scene. As one of the most populous black nation, Nigeria is endowed with so much talent and gifted citizens that the world got to see a glimpse of some at the World Cup. For their performance at the World Cup in 1994, the Eagles won the second best entertaining team in the tournament and it was their first time at the World Cup.
However, the “Giant Of Africa” led by Coach Stephen Keshi will once again this 2014 storm the world Cup in Brazil and preparations have been ongoing to ensure a great performance by the Super Eagles. But before June 12th 2014, when the World Cup will start, www.Happenings9ja.com has put together some of the most memorable World Cup moments the Nigerian football team has had. Take a look:
Yekini Scores Nigeria’s First World Cup Goal
Nigeria scored her first ever World Cup goal against Bulgaria through Rashidi Yekini in the 1994 tournament hosted by the United States. Playing against a European team for the first time at that level, the Eagles were not expected to score first. But Yekini defied the odds to score first in the 21st minute and had a joyous celebration afterwards.
Samson Siasia's Goal Against Argentina
In that same USA’94 tournament,after Nigeria had beaten Bulgaria 3-0 in the first game and watched Argentina defeat Greece in the match before ours; Nigeria was not favoured against the South Americans. But the unexpected happened in the 8th minute as Samson Siasia took advantage of a loose ball and blasted a shot past Argentina’s goalkeeper Luis Islas to record Nigeria's only goal in the match. Argentina eventually won 2-1 but no one would forget in a hurry that they almost lost to Nigeria.
Topping Group D In Style At France’98
Winning one game and losing another did not give assurance of qualifying for the knockout stages but beating Greece in the last game was a task that must be done. However, goals from Finidi George and Daniel Amokachi in the 45th and the 90th minutes placed Nigeria on top of the group and confirmed the team a place in the second round of the tournament.
Stylish Celebration
Former Italian football player Marco Tardeli may have started solo celebration at the World Cup, but Finidi George and Daniel Amokachi took the act to another level after scoring against Greece in their third match at the 1994 World Cup. Finidi mimicked a urinating dog while Amokachi performed a disco dance step. Both acts had their places in the ranking of World Cup celebrations.
Nigeria’s Loss To Italy
Perhaps one of the most memorable matches for Nigeria at the USA '94 was the defeat she suffered in the hands of the Italian international team nicknamed “Azzurri”. The Azzurri almost went out as the Eagles led by a lone goal until the dying minutes when Roberto Baggio got an equalizer to send the game into extra time. A defensive blunder by Nigeria resulted in a penalty which Baggio converted into a goal and ended Nigeria's dream of reaching the quarterfinals. The effect back home was devastating for all Nigerians but then, it was a fair try.
Second Best Entertaining Team
The Eagles did not advance beyond the round of 16 of the 1994 World Cup but their performance won them the second best entertaining team in the tournament.
Eagles Jerseys
Just like every other country, the Nigerian team made their entrance into the World Cup in 1994 with their jerseys and the design was voted as the most beautiful in the tournament.
Best FIFA Ranking
Nigeria attained its best position on the FIFA rankings before the World Cup. The country was placed 5th in the world for the first time in April 1994.
Sunday Oliseh's Heat Shot Against Spain
France’98 is another World Cup tournament that Nigeria and Nigerians will always remember and be proud of. The Super Eagles did the almost impossible in their first match as they defeated the tournament’s favourite team Spain 3-2 in Nantes on June 13. Goals from Mutiu Adepoju and Garba Lawal had cancelled out Hierro's and Raul's goal but a heated shot from Sunday Oliseh sent the whole nation into wild jubilation.
Enyeama's Super Save Against England
Nigeria did not do well generally at the 2002 Korea/Japan World Cup perhaps because Coach Adegboye Onigbinde went with a bunch of inexperienced young players. After losing 1-0 to Argentina and 2-1 to Sweden, Nigeria was out of the race for the second round ticket as the Eagles confronted England. The match ended 0-0 and one big moment of the encounter was the brilliant save by keeper Vincent Enyeama in the tie. It was a fantastic shot by Manchester United midfielder, Paul Scholes, and Enyeama, who was making his first World Cup appearance, dived full length to push the ball out. It was rated as one of the most remarkable saves of the competition.
So, there you have it guys- most memorable moments of the Super Eagles at the World Cup. Very soon, hopefully Nigeria will be adding to this list of memorable experiences in the forthcoming World Cup in Brazil as Coach Stephen Keshi is grilling the boys for the tournament.
Is there any great moment Nigeria experienced during the World Cup that we missed out on? Please let us know.
The world probably did not know what
it was missing in international football until USA 94 when the Green
Eagles now called the Super Eagles of Nigeria came on the scene. As one
of the most populous black nation, Nigeria is endowed with so much
talent and gifted citizens that the world got to see a glimpse of some
at the World Cup. For their performance at the World Cup in 1994, the
Eagles won the second best entertaining team in the tournament and it
was their first time at the World Cup.
However, the “Giant Of Africa” led by Coach Stephen Keshi will once again this 2014 storm the world Cup in Brazil and preparations have been ongoing to ensure a great performance by the Super Eagles. But before June 12th 2014, when the World Cup will start, www.Happenings9ja.com has put together some of the most memorable World Cup moments the Nigerian football team has had. Take a look:
Yekini Scores Nigeria’s First World Cup Goal
Nigeria scored her first ever World Cup goal against Bulgaria through Rashidi Yekini in the 1994 tournament hosted by the United States. Playing against a European team for the first time at that level, the Eagles were not expected to score first. But Yekini defied the odds to score first in the 21st minute and had a joyous celebration afterwards.
Samson Siasia's Goal Against Argentina
In that same USA’94 tournament,after Nigeria had beaten Bulgaria 3-0 in the first game and watched Argentina defeat Greece in the match before ours; Nigeria was not favoured against the South Americans. But the unexpected happened in the 8th minute as Samson Siasia took advantage of a loose ball and blasted a shot past Argentina’s goalkeeper Luis Islas to record Nigeria's only goal in the match. Argentina eventually won 2-1 but no one would forget in a hurry that they almost lost to Nigeria.
Topping Group D In Style At France’98
Winning one game and losing another did not give assurance of qualifying for the knockout stages but beating Greece in the last game was a task that must be done. However, goals from Finidi George and Daniel Amokachi in the 45th and the 90th minutes placed Nigeria on top of the group and confirmed the team a place in the second round of the tournament.
Stylish Celebration
Former Italian football player Marco Tardeli may have started solo celebration at the World Cup, but Finidi George and Daniel Amokachi took the act to another level after scoring against Greece in their third match at the 1994 World Cup. Finidi mimicked a urinating dog while Amokachi performed a disco dance step. Both acts had their places in the ranking of World Cup celebrations.
Nigeria’s Loss To Italy
Perhaps one of the most memorable matches for Nigeria at the USA '94 was the defeat she suffered in the hands of the Italian international team nicknamed “Azzurri”. The Azzurri almost went out as the Eagles led by a lone goal until the dying minutes when Roberto Baggio got an equalizer to send the game into extra time. A defensive blunder by Nigeria resulted in a penalty which Baggio converted into a goal and ended Nigeria's dream of reaching the quarterfinals. The effect back home was devastating for all Nigerians but then, it was a fair try.
Second Best Entertaining Team
The Eagles did not advance beyond the round of 16 of the 1994 World Cup but their performance won them the second best entertaining team in the tournament.
Eagles Jerseys
Just like every other country, the Nigerian team made their entrance into the World Cup in 1994 with their jerseys and the design was voted as the most beautiful in the tournament.
Best FIFA Ranking
Nigeria attained its best position on the FIFA rankings before the World Cup. The country was placed 5th in the world for the first time in April 1994.
Sunday Oliseh's Heat Shot Against Spain
France’98 is another World Cup tournament that Nigeria and Nigerians will always remember and be proud of. The Super Eagles did the almost impossible in their first match as they defeated the tournament’s favourite team Spain 3-2 in Nantes on June 13. Goals from Mutiu Adepoju and Garba Lawal had cancelled out Hierro's and Raul's goal but a heated shot from Sunday Oliseh sent the whole nation into wild jubilation.
Enyeama's Super Save Against England
Nigeria did not do well generally at the 2002 Korea/Japan World Cup perhaps because Coach Adegboye Onigbinde went with a bunch of inexperienced young players. After losing 1-0 to Argentina and 2-1 to Sweden, Nigeria was out of the race for the second round ticket as the Eagles confronted England. The match ended 0-0 and one big moment of the encounter was the brilliant save by keeper Vincent Enyeama in the tie. It was a fantastic shot by Manchester United midfielder, Paul Scholes, and Enyeama, who was making his first World Cup appearance, dived full length to push the ball out. It was rated as one of the most remarkable saves of the competition.
So, there you have it guys- most memorable moments of the Super Eagles at the World Cup. Very soon, hopefully Nigeria will be adding to this list of memorable experiences in the forthcoming World Cup in Brazil as Coach Stephen Keshi is grilling the boys for the tournament.
Is there any great moment Nigeria experienced during the World Cup that we missed out on? Please let us know.
- See more at: http://www.happenings9ja.com/happenings/posts/entertainment-lifestyle/sports/FLASHBACK-Nigerias-Greatest-World-Cup-Moments#sthash.bMUTgqBd.dpuf
However, the “Giant Of Africa” led by Coach Stephen Keshi will once again this 2014 storm the world Cup in Brazil and preparations have been ongoing to ensure a great performance by the Super Eagles. But before June 12th 2014, when the World Cup will start, www.Happenings9ja.com has put together some of the most memorable World Cup moments the Nigerian football team has had. Take a look:
Yekini Scores Nigeria’s First World Cup Goal
Nigeria scored her first ever World Cup goal against Bulgaria through Rashidi Yekini in the 1994 tournament hosted by the United States. Playing against a European team for the first time at that level, the Eagles were not expected to score first. But Yekini defied the odds to score first in the 21st minute and had a joyous celebration afterwards.
Samson Siasia's Goal Against Argentina
In that same USA’94 tournament,after Nigeria had beaten Bulgaria 3-0 in the first game and watched Argentina defeat Greece in the match before ours; Nigeria was not favoured against the South Americans. But the unexpected happened in the 8th minute as Samson Siasia took advantage of a loose ball and blasted a shot past Argentina’s goalkeeper Luis Islas to record Nigeria's only goal in the match. Argentina eventually won 2-1 but no one would forget in a hurry that they almost lost to Nigeria.
Topping Group D In Style At France’98
Winning one game and losing another did not give assurance of qualifying for the knockout stages but beating Greece in the last game was a task that must be done. However, goals from Finidi George and Daniel Amokachi in the 45th and the 90th minutes placed Nigeria on top of the group and confirmed the team a place in the second round of the tournament.
Stylish Celebration
Former Italian football player Marco Tardeli may have started solo celebration at the World Cup, but Finidi George and Daniel Amokachi took the act to another level after scoring against Greece in their third match at the 1994 World Cup. Finidi mimicked a urinating dog while Amokachi performed a disco dance step. Both acts had their places in the ranking of World Cup celebrations.
Nigeria’s Loss To Italy
Perhaps one of the most memorable matches for Nigeria at the USA '94 was the defeat she suffered in the hands of the Italian international team nicknamed “Azzurri”. The Azzurri almost went out as the Eagles led by a lone goal until the dying minutes when Roberto Baggio got an equalizer to send the game into extra time. A defensive blunder by Nigeria resulted in a penalty which Baggio converted into a goal and ended Nigeria's dream of reaching the quarterfinals. The effect back home was devastating for all Nigerians but then, it was a fair try.
Second Best Entertaining Team
The Eagles did not advance beyond the round of 16 of the 1994 World Cup but their performance won them the second best entertaining team in the tournament.
Eagles Jerseys
Just like every other country, the Nigerian team made their entrance into the World Cup in 1994 with their jerseys and the design was voted as the most beautiful in the tournament.
Best FIFA Ranking
Nigeria attained its best position on the FIFA rankings before the World Cup. The country was placed 5th in the world for the first time in April 1994.
Sunday Oliseh's Heat Shot Against Spain
France’98 is another World Cup tournament that Nigeria and Nigerians will always remember and be proud of. The Super Eagles did the almost impossible in their first match as they defeated the tournament’s favourite team Spain 3-2 in Nantes on June 13. Goals from Mutiu Adepoju and Garba Lawal had cancelled out Hierro's and Raul's goal but a heated shot from Sunday Oliseh sent the whole nation into wild jubilation.
Enyeama's Super Save Against England
Nigeria did not do well generally at the 2002 Korea/Japan World Cup perhaps because Coach Adegboye Onigbinde went with a bunch of inexperienced young players. After losing 1-0 to Argentina and 2-1 to Sweden, Nigeria was out of the race for the second round ticket as the Eagles confronted England. The match ended 0-0 and one big moment of the encounter was the brilliant save by keeper Vincent Enyeama in the tie. It was a fantastic shot by Manchester United midfielder, Paul Scholes, and Enyeama, who was making his first World Cup appearance, dived full length to push the ball out. It was rated as one of the most remarkable saves of the competition.
So, there you have it guys- most memorable moments of the Super Eagles at the World Cup. Very soon, hopefully Nigeria will be adding to this list of memorable experiences in the forthcoming World Cup in Brazil as Coach Stephen Keshi is grilling the boys for the tournament.
Is there any great moment Nigeria experienced during the World Cup that we missed out on? Please let us know.
- See more at: http://www.happenings9ja.com/happenings/posts/entertainment-lifestyle/sports/FLASHBACK-Nigerias-Greatest-World-Cup-Moments#sthash.bMUTgqBd.dpuf
The world probably did not know what
it was missing in international football until USA 94 when the Green
Eagles now called the Super Eagles of Nigeria came on the scene. As one
of the most populous black nation, Nigeria is endowed with so much
talent and gifted citizens that the world got to see a glimpse of some
at the World Cup. For their performance at the World Cup in 1994, the
Eagles won the second best entertaining team in the tournament and it
was their first time at the World Cup.
However, the “Giant Of Africa” led by Coach Stephen Keshi will once again this 2014 storm the world Cup in Brazil and preparations have been ongoing to ensure a great performance by the Super Eagles. But before June 12th 2014, when the World Cup will start, www.Happenings9ja.com has put together some of the most memorable World Cup moments the Nigerian football team has had. Take a look:
Yekini Scores Nigeria’s First World Cup Goal
Nigeria scored her first ever World Cup goal against Bulgaria through Rashidi Yekini in the 1994 tournament hosted by the United States. Playing against a European team for the first time at that level, the Eagles were not expected to score first. But Yekini defied the odds to score first in the 21st minute and had a joyous celebration afterwards.
Samson Siasia's Goal Against Argentina
In that same USA’94 tournament,after Nigeria had beaten Bulgaria 3-0 in the first game and watched Argentina defeat Greece in the match before ours; Nigeria was not favoured against the South Americans. But the unexpected happened in the 8th minute as Samson Siasia took advantage of a loose ball and blasted a shot past Argentina’s goalkeeper Luis Islas to record Nigeria's only goal in the match. Argentina eventually won 2-1 but no one would forget in a hurry that they almost lost to Nigeria.
Topping Group D In Style At France’98
Winning one game and losing another did not give assurance of qualifying for the knockout stages but beating Greece in the last game was a task that must be done. However, goals from Finidi George and Daniel Amokachi in the 45th and the 90th minutes placed Nigeria on top of the group and confirmed the team a place in the second round of the tournament.
Stylish Celebration
Former Italian football player Marco Tardeli may have started solo celebration at the World Cup, but Finidi George and Daniel Amokachi took the act to another level after scoring against Greece in their third match at the 1994 World Cup. Finidi mimicked a urinating dog while Amokachi performed a disco dance step. Both acts had their places in the ranking of World Cup celebrations.
Nigeria’s Loss To Italy
Perhaps one of the most memorable matches for Nigeria at the USA '94 was the defeat she suffered in the hands of the Italian international team nicknamed “Azzurri”. The Azzurri almost went out as the Eagles led by a lone goal until the dying minutes when Roberto Baggio got an equalizer to send the game into extra time. A defensive blunder by Nigeria resulted in a penalty which Baggio converted into a goal and ended Nigeria's dream of reaching the quarterfinals. The effect back home was devastating for all Nigerians but then, it was a fair try.
Second Best Entertaining Team
The Eagles did not advance beyond the round of 16 of the 1994 World Cup but their performance won them the second best entertaining team in the tournament.
Eagles Jerseys
Just like every other country, the Nigerian team made their entrance into the World Cup in 1994 with their jerseys and the design was voted as the most beautiful in the tournament.
Best FIFA Ranking
Nigeria attained its best position on the FIFA rankings before the World Cup. The country was placed 5th in the world for the first time in April 1994.
Sunday Oliseh's Heat Shot Against Spain
France’98 is another World Cup tournament that Nigeria and Nigerians will always remember and be proud of. The Super Eagles did the almost impossible in their first match as they defeated the tournament’s favourite team Spain 3-2 in Nantes on June 13. Goals from Mutiu Adepoju and Garba Lawal had cancelled out Hierro's and Raul's goal but a heated shot from Sunday Oliseh sent the whole nation into wild jubilation.
Enyeama's Super Save Against England
Nigeria did not do well generally at the 2002 Korea/Japan World Cup perhaps because Coach Adegboye Onigbinde went with a bunch of inexperienced young players. After losing 1-0 to Argentina and 2-1 to Sweden, Nigeria was out of the race for the second round ticket as the Eagles confronted England. The match ended 0-0 and one big moment of the encounter was the brilliant save by keeper Vincent Enyeama in the tie. It was a fantastic shot by Manchester United midfielder, Paul Scholes, and Enyeama, who was making his first World Cup appearance, dived full length to push the ball out. It was rated as one of the most remarkable saves of the competition.
So, there you have it guys- most memorable moments of the Super Eagles at the World Cup. Very soon, hopefully Nigeria will be adding to this list of memorable experiences in the forthcoming World Cup in Brazil as Coach Stephen Keshi is grilling the boys for the tournament.
Is there any great moment Nigeria experienced during the World Cup that we missed out on? Please let us know.
- See more at: http://www.happenings9ja.com/happenings/posts/entertainment-lifestyle/sports/FLASHBACK-Nigerias-Greatest-World-Cup-Moments#sthash.bMUTgqBd.dpuf
However, the “Giant Of Africa” led by Coach Stephen Keshi will once again this 2014 storm the world Cup in Brazil and preparations have been ongoing to ensure a great performance by the Super Eagles. But before June 12th 2014, when the World Cup will start, www.Happenings9ja.com has put together some of the most memorable World Cup moments the Nigerian football team has had. Take a look:
Yekini Scores Nigeria’s First World Cup Goal
Nigeria scored her first ever World Cup goal against Bulgaria through Rashidi Yekini in the 1994 tournament hosted by the United States. Playing against a European team for the first time at that level, the Eagles were not expected to score first. But Yekini defied the odds to score first in the 21st minute and had a joyous celebration afterwards.
Samson Siasia's Goal Against Argentina
In that same USA’94 tournament,after Nigeria had beaten Bulgaria 3-0 in the first game and watched Argentina defeat Greece in the match before ours; Nigeria was not favoured against the South Americans. But the unexpected happened in the 8th minute as Samson Siasia took advantage of a loose ball and blasted a shot past Argentina’s goalkeeper Luis Islas to record Nigeria's only goal in the match. Argentina eventually won 2-1 but no one would forget in a hurry that they almost lost to Nigeria.
Topping Group D In Style At France’98
Winning one game and losing another did not give assurance of qualifying for the knockout stages but beating Greece in the last game was a task that must be done. However, goals from Finidi George and Daniel Amokachi in the 45th and the 90th minutes placed Nigeria on top of the group and confirmed the team a place in the second round of the tournament.
Stylish Celebration
Former Italian football player Marco Tardeli may have started solo celebration at the World Cup, but Finidi George and Daniel Amokachi took the act to another level after scoring against Greece in their third match at the 1994 World Cup. Finidi mimicked a urinating dog while Amokachi performed a disco dance step. Both acts had their places in the ranking of World Cup celebrations.
Nigeria’s Loss To Italy
Perhaps one of the most memorable matches for Nigeria at the USA '94 was the defeat she suffered in the hands of the Italian international team nicknamed “Azzurri”. The Azzurri almost went out as the Eagles led by a lone goal until the dying minutes when Roberto Baggio got an equalizer to send the game into extra time. A defensive blunder by Nigeria resulted in a penalty which Baggio converted into a goal and ended Nigeria's dream of reaching the quarterfinals. The effect back home was devastating for all Nigerians but then, it was a fair try.
Second Best Entertaining Team
The Eagles did not advance beyond the round of 16 of the 1994 World Cup but their performance won them the second best entertaining team in the tournament.
Eagles Jerseys
Just like every other country, the Nigerian team made their entrance into the World Cup in 1994 with their jerseys and the design was voted as the most beautiful in the tournament.
Best FIFA Ranking
Nigeria attained its best position on the FIFA rankings before the World Cup. The country was placed 5th in the world for the first time in April 1994.
Sunday Oliseh's Heat Shot Against Spain
France’98 is another World Cup tournament that Nigeria and Nigerians will always remember and be proud of. The Super Eagles did the almost impossible in their first match as they defeated the tournament’s favourite team Spain 3-2 in Nantes on June 13. Goals from Mutiu Adepoju and Garba Lawal had cancelled out Hierro's and Raul's goal but a heated shot from Sunday Oliseh sent the whole nation into wild jubilation.
Enyeama's Super Save Against England
Nigeria did not do well generally at the 2002 Korea/Japan World Cup perhaps because Coach Adegboye Onigbinde went with a bunch of inexperienced young players. After losing 1-0 to Argentina and 2-1 to Sweden, Nigeria was out of the race for the second round ticket as the Eagles confronted England. The match ended 0-0 and one big moment of the encounter was the brilliant save by keeper Vincent Enyeama in the tie. It was a fantastic shot by Manchester United midfielder, Paul Scholes, and Enyeama, who was making his first World Cup appearance, dived full length to push the ball out. It was rated as one of the most remarkable saves of the competition.
So, there you have it guys- most memorable moments of the Super Eagles at the World Cup. Very soon, hopefully Nigeria will be adding to this list of memorable experiences in the forthcoming World Cup in Brazil as Coach Stephen Keshi is grilling the boys for the tournament.
Is there any great moment Nigeria experienced during the World Cup that we missed out on? Please let us know.
- See more at: http://www.happenings9ja.com/happenings/posts/entertainment-lifestyle/sports/FLASHBACK-Nigerias-Greatest-World-Cup-Moments#sthash.bMUTgqBd.dpuf
The world probably did not know what
it was missing in international football until USA 94 when the Green
Eagles now called the Super Eagles of Nigeria came on the scene. As one
of the most populous black nation, Nigeria is endowed with so much
talent and gifted citizens that the world got to see a glimpse of some
at the World Cup. For their performance at the World Cup in 1994, the
Eagles won the second best entertaining team in the tournament and it
was their first time at the World Cup.
However, the “Giant Of Africa” led by Coach Stephen Keshi will once again this 2014 storm the world Cup in Brazil and preparations have been ongoing to ensure a great performance by the Super Eagles. But before June 12th 2014, when the World Cup will start, www.Happenings9ja.com has put together some of the most memorable World Cup moments the Nigerian football team has had. Take a look:
Yekini Scores Nigeria’s First World Cup Goal
Nigeria scored her first ever World Cup goal against Bulgaria through Rashidi Yekini in the 1994 tournament hosted by the United States. Playing against a European team for the first time at that level, the Eagles were not expected to score first. But Yekini defied the odds to score first in the 21st minute and had a joyous celebration afterwards.
Samson Siasia's Goal Against Argentina
In that same USA’94 tournament,after Nigeria had beaten Bulgaria 3-0 in the first game and watched Argentina defeat Greece in the match before ours; Nigeria was not favoured against the South Americans. But the unexpected happened in the 8th minute as Samson Siasia took advantage of a loose ball and blasted a shot past Argentina’s goalkeeper Luis Islas to record Nigeria's only goal in the match. Argentina eventually won 2-1 but no one would forget in a hurry that they almost lost to Nigeria.
Topping Group D In Style At France’98
Winning one game and losing another did not give assurance of qualifying for the knockout stages but beating Greece in the last game was a task that must be done. However, goals from Finidi George and Daniel Amokachi in the 45th and the 90th minutes placed Nigeria on top of the group and confirmed the team a place in the second round of the tournament.
Stylish Celebration
Former Italian football player Marco Tardeli may have started solo celebration at the World Cup, but Finidi George and Daniel Amokachi took the act to another level after scoring against Greece in their third match at the 1994 World Cup. Finidi mimicked a urinating dog while Amokachi performed a disco dance step. Both acts had their places in the ranking of World Cup celebrations.
Nigeria’s Loss To Italy
Perhaps one of the most memorable matches for Nigeria at the USA '94 was the defeat she suffered in the hands of the Italian international team nicknamed “Azzurri”. The Azzurri almost went out as the Eagles led by a lone goal until the dying minutes when Roberto Baggio got an equalizer to send the game into extra time. A defensive blunder by Nigeria resulted in a penalty which Baggio converted into a goal and ended Nigeria's dream of reaching the quarterfinals. The effect back home was devastating for all Nigerians but then, it was a fair try.
Second Best Entertaining Team
The Eagles did not advance beyond the round of 16 of the 1994 World Cup but their performance won them the second best entertaining team in the tournament.
Eagles Jerseys
Just like every other country, the Nigerian team made their entrance into the World Cup in 1994 with their jerseys and the design was voted as the most beautiful in the tournament.
Best FIFA Ranking
Nigeria attained its best position on the FIFA rankings before the World Cup. The country was placed 5th in the world for the first time in April 1994.
Sunday Oliseh's Heat Shot Against Spain
France’98 is another World Cup tournament that Nigeria and Nigerians will always remember and be proud of. The Super Eagles did the almost impossible in their first match as they defeated the tournament’s favourite team Spain 3-2 in Nantes on June 13. Goals from Mutiu Adepoju and Garba Lawal had cancelled out Hierro's and Raul's goal but a heated shot from Sunday Oliseh sent the whole nation into wild jubilation.
Enyeama's Super Save Against England
Nigeria did not do well generally at the 2002 Korea/Japan World Cup perhaps because Coach Adegboye Onigbinde went with a bunch of inexperienced young players. After losing 1-0 to Argentina and 2-1 to Sweden, Nigeria was out of the race for the second round ticket as the Eagles confronted England. The match ended 0-0 and one big moment of the encounter was the brilliant save by keeper Vincent Enyeama in the tie. It was a fantastic shot by Manchester United midfielder, Paul Scholes, and Enyeama, who was making his first World Cup appearance, dived full length to push the ball out. It was rated as one of the most remarkable saves of the competition.
So, there you have it guys- most memorable moments of the Super Eagles at the World Cup. Very soon, hopefully Nigeria will be adding to this list of memorable experiences in the forthcoming World Cup in Brazil as Coach Stephen Keshi is grilling the boys for the tournament.
Is there any great moment Nigeria experienced during the World Cup that we missed out on? Please let us know.
- See more at: http://www.happenings9ja.com/happenings/posts/entertainment-lifestyle/sports/FLASHBACK-Nigerias-Greatest-World-Cup-Moments#sthash.bMUTgqBd.dpuf
However, the “Giant Of Africa” led by Coach Stephen Keshi will once again this 2014 storm the world Cup in Brazil and preparations have been ongoing to ensure a great performance by the Super Eagles. But before June 12th 2014, when the World Cup will start, www.Happenings9ja.com has put together some of the most memorable World Cup moments the Nigerian football team has had. Take a look:
Yekini Scores Nigeria’s First World Cup Goal
Nigeria scored her first ever World Cup goal against Bulgaria through Rashidi Yekini in the 1994 tournament hosted by the United States. Playing against a European team for the first time at that level, the Eagles were not expected to score first. But Yekini defied the odds to score first in the 21st minute and had a joyous celebration afterwards.
Samson Siasia's Goal Against Argentina
In that same USA’94 tournament,after Nigeria had beaten Bulgaria 3-0 in the first game and watched Argentina defeat Greece in the match before ours; Nigeria was not favoured against the South Americans. But the unexpected happened in the 8th minute as Samson Siasia took advantage of a loose ball and blasted a shot past Argentina’s goalkeeper Luis Islas to record Nigeria's only goal in the match. Argentina eventually won 2-1 but no one would forget in a hurry that they almost lost to Nigeria.
Topping Group D In Style At France’98
Winning one game and losing another did not give assurance of qualifying for the knockout stages but beating Greece in the last game was a task that must be done. However, goals from Finidi George and Daniel Amokachi in the 45th and the 90th minutes placed Nigeria on top of the group and confirmed the team a place in the second round of the tournament.
Stylish Celebration
Former Italian football player Marco Tardeli may have started solo celebration at the World Cup, but Finidi George and Daniel Amokachi took the act to another level after scoring against Greece in their third match at the 1994 World Cup. Finidi mimicked a urinating dog while Amokachi performed a disco dance step. Both acts had their places in the ranking of World Cup celebrations.
Nigeria’s Loss To Italy
Perhaps one of the most memorable matches for Nigeria at the USA '94 was the defeat she suffered in the hands of the Italian international team nicknamed “Azzurri”. The Azzurri almost went out as the Eagles led by a lone goal until the dying minutes when Roberto Baggio got an equalizer to send the game into extra time. A defensive blunder by Nigeria resulted in a penalty which Baggio converted into a goal and ended Nigeria's dream of reaching the quarterfinals. The effect back home was devastating for all Nigerians but then, it was a fair try.
Second Best Entertaining Team
The Eagles did not advance beyond the round of 16 of the 1994 World Cup but their performance won them the second best entertaining team in the tournament.
Eagles Jerseys
Just like every other country, the Nigerian team made their entrance into the World Cup in 1994 with their jerseys and the design was voted as the most beautiful in the tournament.
Best FIFA Ranking
Nigeria attained its best position on the FIFA rankings before the World Cup. The country was placed 5th in the world for the first time in April 1994.
Sunday Oliseh's Heat Shot Against Spain
France’98 is another World Cup tournament that Nigeria and Nigerians will always remember and be proud of. The Super Eagles did the almost impossible in their first match as they defeated the tournament’s favourite team Spain 3-2 in Nantes on June 13. Goals from Mutiu Adepoju and Garba Lawal had cancelled out Hierro's and Raul's goal but a heated shot from Sunday Oliseh sent the whole nation into wild jubilation.
Enyeama's Super Save Against England
Nigeria did not do well generally at the 2002 Korea/Japan World Cup perhaps because Coach Adegboye Onigbinde went with a bunch of inexperienced young players. After losing 1-0 to Argentina and 2-1 to Sweden, Nigeria was out of the race for the second round ticket as the Eagles confronted England. The match ended 0-0 and one big moment of the encounter was the brilliant save by keeper Vincent Enyeama in the tie. It was a fantastic shot by Manchester United midfielder, Paul Scholes, and Enyeama, who was making his first World Cup appearance, dived full length to push the ball out. It was rated as one of the most remarkable saves of the competition.
So, there you have it guys- most memorable moments of the Super Eagles at the World Cup. Very soon, hopefully Nigeria will be adding to this list of memorable experiences in the forthcoming World Cup in Brazil as Coach Stephen Keshi is grilling the boys for the tournament.
Is there any great moment Nigeria experienced during the World Cup that we missed out on? Please let us know.
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FLASHBACK: Nigeria’s Greatest World Cup Moments
by Chinedu Okorie
Credit: www.goal.com
The world probably did not know what it was missing in international football until USA 94 when the Green Eagles now called the Super Eagles of Nigeria came on the scene. As one of the most populous black nation, Nigeria is endowed with so much talent and gifted citizens that the world got to see a glimpse of some at the World Cup. For their performance at the World Cup in 1994, the Eagles won the second best entertaining team in the tournament and it was their first time at the World Cup.
However, the “Giant Of Africa” led by Coach Stephen Keshi will once again this 2014 storm the world Cup in Brazil and preparations have been ongoing to ensure a great performance by the Super Eagles. But before June 12th 2014, when the World Cup will start, www.Happenings9ja.com has put together some of the most memorable World Cup moments the Nigerian football team has had. Take a look:
Yekini Scores Nigeria’s First World Cup Goal
Nigeria scored her first ever World Cup goal against Bulgaria through Rashidi Yekini in the 1994 tournament hosted by the United States. Playing against a European team for the first time at that level, the Eagles were not expected to score first. But Yekini defied the odds to score first in the 21st minute and had a joyous celebration afterwards.
Samson Siasia's Goal Against Argentina
In that same USA’94 tournament,after Nigeria had beaten Bulgaria 3-0 in the first game and watched Argentina defeat Greece in the match before ours; Nigeria was not favoured against the South Americans. But the unexpected happened in the 8th minute as Samson Siasia took advantage of a loose ball and blasted a shot past Argentina’s goalkeeper Luis Islas to record Nigeria's only goal in the match. Argentina eventually won 2-1 but no one would forget in a hurry that they almost lost to Nigeria.
Topping Group D In Style At France’98
Winning one game and losing another did not give assurance of qualifying for the knockout stages but beating Greece in the last game was a task that must be done. However, goals from Finidi George and Daniel Amokachi in the 45th and the 90th minutes placed Nigeria on top of the group and confirmed the team a place in the second round of the tournament.
Stylish Celebration
Former Italian football player Marco Tardeli may have started solo celebration at the World Cup, but Finidi George and Daniel Amokachi took the act to another level after scoring against Greece in their third match at the 1994 World Cup. Finidi mimicked a urinating dog while Amokachi performed a disco dance step. Both acts had their places in the ranking of World Cup celebrations.
Nigeria’s Loss To Italy
Perhaps one of the most memorable matches for Nigeria at the USA '94 was the defeat she suffered in the hands of the Italian international team nicknamed “Azzurri”. The Azzurri almost went out as the Eagles led by a lone goal until the dying minutes when Roberto Baggio got an equalizer to send the game into extra time. A defensive blunder by Nigeria resulted in a penalty which Baggio converted into a goal and ended Nigeria's dream of reaching the quarterfinals. The effect back home was devastating for all Nigerians but then, it was a fair try.
Second Best Entertaining Team
The Eagles did not advance beyond the round of 16 of the 1994 World Cup but their performance won them the second best entertaining team in the tournament.
Eagles Jerseys
Just like every other country, the Nigerian team made their entrance into the World Cup in 1994 with their jerseys and the design was voted as the most beautiful in the tournament.
Best FIFA Ranking
Nigeria attained its best position on the FIFA rankings before the World Cup. The country was placed 5th in the world for the first time in April 1994.
Sunday Oliseh's Heat Shot Against Spain
France’98 is another World Cup tournament that Nigeria and Nigerians will always remember and be proud of. The Super Eagles did the almost impossible in their first match as they defeated the tournament’s favourite team Spain 3-2 in Nantes on June 13. Goals from Mutiu Adepoju and Garba Lawal had cancelled out Hierro's and Raul's goal but a heated shot from Sunday Oliseh sent the whole nation into wild jubilation.
Enyeama's Super Save Against England
Nigeria did not do well generally at the 2002 Korea/Japan World Cup perhaps because Coach Adegboye Onigbinde went with a bunch of inexperienced young players. After losing 1-0 to Argentina and 2-1 to Sweden, Nigeria was out of the race for the second round ticket as the Eagles confronted England. The match ended 0-0 and one big moment of the encounter was the brilliant save by keeper Vincent Enyeama in the tie. It was a fantastic shot by Manchester United midfielder, Paul Scholes, and Enyeama, who was making his first World Cup appearance, dived full length to push the ball out. It was rated as one of the most remarkable saves of the competition.
So, there you have it guys- most memorable moments of the Super Eagles at the World Cup. Very soon, hopefully Nigeria will be adding to this list of memorable experiences in the forthcoming World Cup in Brazil as Coach Stephen Keshi is grilling the boys for the tournament.
Is there any great moment Nigeria experienced during the World Cup that we missed out on? Please let us know.
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