Long Range Free-Kick Defeats Super Eagles Against Costa Rica

Nigeria vs. Costa Rica friendly was a game that by every intent was meant to show the other side of the Super Eagles, and of course give to Nigerians a tip of what could have been had they reached the World Cup, but sadly a long range free kick came to sully such hopes as it ended in a stunning defeat.

The home based Super Eagles team battled valiantly against a Costa Rica side eager to kick start World Cup preparations but sadly found themselves falling short in a 2-0 international friendly loss to the American side on Thursday morning at the National Stadium in San Jose.

In the seventh minute, veteran defender Oscar Duarte headed in a goal.

The Super Eagles defenders were ball-watching when the goal was scored from a long free kick.

The Super Eagles held their own despite conceding so early in the match thanks to Water FC right-back Dominion Ohaka’s disruption of the Costa Rican defense.

Ohaka, who drew the attention of the crowd, was excellent at moving forward with the ball and provided some quality crosses.

However, the forwards lacked the assurance necessary to seriously challenge the Costa Rican defense.

Sunday Faleye, who came on as a second-half substitute, also displayed flashes of the player who excelled for Nigeria at the 2018 African Nations Championship in Morocco.

Ejeh Isaiah, who played at center back, was fortunate to escape punishment for a rugby-like tackle he made in the second half.

17 minutes from the end, Kendal Watson scored Costa Rica’s second goal.

The Super Eagles will now focus on their upcoming Friendlies against Portugal on November 17 in Lisbon.