Day 19 - Nigeria v France

Pre-Match Thoughts
Prior to their previous games, I would guessed this would be a clear-cut affair to the French, who were impressive against the Swiss while Nigeria needed a lot of luck to beat Bosnia H., mainly from the referee. However, France looked disinterested an Ecuador team that should have been easily beaten and Nigeria put up a good fight against Argentina.

The question is whether recent disputes about bonus payments in the Nigerian camp will have disputed their mindsets much. Player-for-player, the French are much the better team and if their collective head is on right, they should progress to the next round. I think they'll start slow but the quality will show in the end: 2-0 to France, is my (ill fated) bet.

First Half
A slightly interesting first half, with the ball in the net only once. It would have been a goal for Nigeria but for the offside call being correctly made. France have had their moments, with Paul Pogba almost capping off a good move but for his shot being right at the goalie.

There's plenty of space for both teams to exploit here but the French especially have been guilty of what us experts call "dicking around". Vast improvements in creating chances needed by both sides here.

Second Half
It was the French who improved, with Nigeria not offering anything major and only their goalkeeper and the crossbar keeping them in the game. Alas, on one of many corners, the goalkeeper flapped wildly, totally missing the ball and allowing Paul Pogba to nod it in.

That seemed to kill the African Champions' spirit as France were then able to take it more easy and it wasn't a surprise when a second goal came, albeit from an own-goal by the unfortunate Yobo.

Result
2-0 to France.

Incessant Earworm of the Day
The theme tune from "Ducktales".