The Super Eagles of Nigeria got off to a disappointing start at the 2018 FIFA world cup as they lost to their Croatian counterparts by two goals to nil.
The game which started off slowly had the Nigerian team dominate with most of the possession as but they failed to make anything out of it. An unfortunate own goal by Nigeria’s Oghenekaro Etebor gifted the Croatians a goal in the 37th minute to end the half a goal up.
The second half began with the Croatian side putting more pressure on the Eagles with series of set pieces and corners. One of those corners resulted in a penalty as Nigeria’s Troost-Ekong was adjudged to have hauled down Croatia’s Mandzukic. Luka Modric made no mistake with the finish as he sent Nigeria’s teenage goalkeeper Francis Uzoho to the wrong side.
The game ended with two goals for the Croatians who now top Group D with 3 points. Argentina and Iceland occupy the second and position respectively with one point each following their lone goal draw earlier in the day.