Super Eagles Player Ratings : Etebo Top Man, Mikel Struggles, Iwobi Not Threatening, Moses Uninspiring

The Super Eagles opened their 2018 Russia World Cup campaign with a 2-0 defeat to Croatia at the Kaliningrad Stadium on Saturday evening.


Goalkeeper

Francis Uzoho: The young goaltender could do little about both goals he conceded. Kept down the scoreline with some important saves. (6/10)

Defenders

William Troost-Ekong: Was astute in his defensive duties for as long as he did not wrap his hands all over Mandzukic. Undid all his good works with that single act. (5/10)

Leon Balogun: Dovetailed well with William in the rear and was an imposing presence in aerial duels.(6/10)

Shehu Abdullahi: Made a lot of running though lacked no decisive bite going forward. (5/10)

Brian Idowu: Offered little on the left flank and did very little. (4.5/10)

Midfielders

Wilfred Ndidi: Dropped back brilliantly to shield his defence whenever Mikel ventured forward and though distribution left more to be desired. (6/10)

Oghenekaro Etebo: Full of energy and passing particularly during the first half. Diverted into his own goal from Mario Mandzukic's header. (7/10)

Mikel Obi: Though he had his moments, he was outnumbered by the Croatian star midfielders. Most of his attributes were missing.  (5/10)

Alex Iwobi: Had very little to work on was well kept in check by the Simë Vrsaljko. Tracked back a couple of times to help out defensively too. (5.5/10)

Victor Moses: Full of running and his trademark dribbling but end product brought nothing meaningful. (6/10)

Odion Ighalo: A few hold up plays and occasional crack at goal but nothing spectacular. He was isolated due to lack of service from midfield. Made way for Iheanacho. (5.5/10)

The Substitutes

Ahmed Musa: Did little when he was introduced partly due to getting very little service (4.5/10)

Kelechi Iheanacho: Offered a more attacking threat after coming on and had a shot to show for. (5/10)