Rolo Zapata Tips Group F Winner For World Cup Semis

Argentinian coach Rolo Zapata has opined that the winner of Group F - which pits Argentina, Nigeria, Bosnia and Iran - has been handed an easy route qualifying for the semifinals of the World Cup.

The former Sunshine Stars and Black Aces gaffer reckons that the big match in the group will take place on June 25 when two - time champions Argentina clash with the Super Eagles as both teams will be fighting to top the group.

“Argentina - Nigeria will be a decisive game. There is a big difference finishing first and second in Group F. If all candidates win their groups according to the form guide, Group F winner will have a fairly clear route to the semi-final.

“In theory, they could face Ecuador or Switzerland in the round of 16 and Belgium, Ghana, Portugal or USA in quarterfinals.

“I believe Argentina and Nigeria will make it to the second round,” Rolo Zapata told allnigeriasoccer.com.

Rolo Zapata has claimed that he was approached by the Nigeria Football Federation to be an assistant to Stephen Keshi at the mundial before the Nigeria manager insisted on keeping the same backroom staff.

“Couple of months ago, I was contacted to be the foreign assistant to Keshi but as you know he preferred to continue with his coaching staff,” he added.