2014 World Cup Predictions, Analysis, Dates: Nigeria vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina: Breaking Both Group F Teams Down
Group F is viewed by many as the weakest in the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Other than Argentina, there isn't much of a threat to win this year's World Cup. Argentina is a huge favorite to win this group, so that may just mean everyone else is playing for second place.
Still, Nigeria and Bosnia and Herzegovina's game Saturday in Brazil looks to be exciting, even as both teams are still winless in the tournament. Who's got the edge? Latin Post.com takes a look:
Nigeria
Nigeria didn't play in a World Cup until 1994, but it has qualified for every World Cup since and has advanced to the knockout round twice.
Coached by Stephen Keshi, who spent much of his playing career with the Nigerian National Team, Nigeria is looking to come out swinging. The squad is ranked No. 44 in the world, and much of that is because of its poor offense and below-average midfield play. Nigeria's strongest asset is goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama, who played in his first World Cup in 2002. Team captain Joseph Yobo is a very good defender who last played for Norwich City.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Bosnia and Herzegovina played a strong Argentina team in their opener and lost 2-1. They didn't win, but they did turn some heads in the process. Unfortunately for Bosnia, the team has never won a World Cup game.
Could this be the first?
Bosnia and Herzegovina comes into the World Cup ranked No. 21 and is led by head coach Safet Susic. Susic, like Keshi, played for his country's national team. Bosnia and Herzegovina doesn't have the strongest presence at goal, but team captain Emir Spahic makes a big difference on defense. The team's most talented player is Zvjezdan Misimovic, who was born in West Germany. Bosnia and Herzegovina's passing is going to be top-notch so the team doesn't become worn out early.
Schedule, Date, Location and Where to Watch
These teams play at the Arena Pantanal in Cuiabá, in Brazil's west corridor. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. Saturday on ESPN. The game can also be watched online at WatchESPN.com by downloading the app.
Prediction
Bosnia and Herzegovina is the favored team, and the side showed a lot of heart against Argentina. But Nigeria, led by goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama, will deny the Bosnians their first World Cup win. Nigeria wins 2-1.
For up-to-date sports news, scores and more, follow Latin Post Sports on Twitter.