Keshi begin reign with draw against Zebras of Bostwana

Posted by admin Headlines, Soccer, Sports Saturday, November 12th, 2011

Nigeria managed a goalless draw against Botswana in a friendly international in Benin City on Saturday evening in what was coach Stephen Keshi’s first game in charge.

An enthusiastic crowd turned up to cheer the Super Eagles to victory but were left disappointed as the resolute, well-coordinated Zebras held their own in defence to ward off the hosts’ attack.

The Eagles found it hard to break down the Zebras with shots blocked by young goalkeeper Kabelo Dambe even as the Nigerians hugged most of the possession throughout the game.

Ike Uche, Joel Obi and Fegor Ogude all saw their shots kept out by Dambe as rains poured down during the first half.

The eager Benin fans then took to chanting and asking for a goal in the second half that saw series of changes made by both coaches.

Substitutes Brown Ideye, Chinedu Obasi and Ahmed Musa had opportunities saved as the game wore to a close.

Midfielder Dickson Etuhu was voted man of the match.

Nigeria will next play Zambia on November 15 in Kaduna as they seek to rebuild after missing out of the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations.
-Kickoffwp_posts