Iraq’s Mohammed Abdul Zahra Obaid (left) and goalkeeper Ali Muttashar Naser close down on Nigeria’s Owoeri John in their Inter-Continental Cup match at MBPJ Stadium yesterday. Nigeria won 1-0. — Pic: HASAN ISMAIL
AS expected, the favourites booked their spots in the semi-finals of the Inter Continental Cup when Nigeria beat Iraq 1-0 in their final Inter-Continental Cup Group A match yesterday.
Nigeria, who finished top of Group A, meet Chile in the semi-finals tomorrow while Australia, who topped Group B, meet Ireland.
“It is going to be a tough match for us as it is never easy playing against a South American team. Chile are a very composed team,” said Nigerian coach Samson SiaSia.
“The Chileans are very skillful and their ball possession is also very good. We must not give them too much of space,” added Samson, who played for Nigeria in the 1994 World Cup.
Chile manager Andres Alvarado promised an entertaining tie.
“It is surely a match that all Malaysian fans must watch as it is going to be very entertaining,” said Alvarado.
Chile’s attacking front of Paulo Magalhaes, Gerardo Cortez and Alfonso Parot have been solid and Nigeria will have to tread with caution.
Australia, who are also preparing for the Olympics, will come up against an Irish team whose strength is their discipline.
Ireland are preparing for the European Under-21 Championship in October but Australia start as favourites.
Article source:
