The last phase of Nigeria’s World Cup preparations got under way on a promising note after the Super Eagles held Mexico to a 0-0 draw in an international friendly match at the Georgia Dome, Atlanta, USA Wednesday.
With both sides parading strong sides in an encounter that is fast becoming a tradition between the two, the Super Eagles got off to a brilliant start, and could have made their dominance counted, but Emmanuel Emenike’s effort was beaten away by Ochoa in goal for Mexico
Lazio midfielder Ogenyi Onazi long rage was also denied by the goalkeeper, while Victor Moses screwed an effort wide.
Having survived the early blitzkrieg, Mexico survived the early pressure and took charge, forcing captain Vincent Enyeama to make series of saves to ensure the first 45 minutes ended goalless.
Stephen Keshi made some replacement changes at halftime. Second choice goalkeeper Austin Ejide, again had another chance to prove himself and he did not disappoint after making several saves.
Last minute invitee, Leon Balogun made an impressive impact after coming in as a sub, before going off injures after taking a heavy tumble during an off-the field incident with a Mexican player, while Ramon Azeez found it a bit tough to make a serious impact.
Nigeria: Enyeama (Ejide 46′), Echiejile, Omeruo, Oboabona, Ambrose (Balogun 46′, Egwuekwe 66′), Uchebo (Azeez 46′), Mikel, Onazi, Moses (Ezekiel 71′), Emenike, Musa (Obinna 60′)
Mexico: Ochoa, Moreno, Marquez, Reyes (Maza 64′), Guardado, Montes (Aquino 46′), Medina (Peña 64′), Herrera (Vazquez 74′), Aguilar, Peralta (Jimenez 70′), Hernandez (Pulido 46′)
