Preview: The Azzurri and the Super Eagles – two confident sides
These are the sort of games that Nigeria must win. Regardless of the fact that this clash is not a competitive one, playing four-time World Cup champions Italy is always big. It is an opportunity for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations titleholders to test their metal following their short adventure at the FIFA Confederations Cup earlier this summer.
As the first African team to book tickets to Brazil 2014, the Super Eagles feel proud and have set their eyes on lifting the golden trophy next year. Lille-based Nigerian veteran goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama was quoted by BBC Sport as saying:
“To make an impression at the World Cup? No, we can actually win it. I wouldn't be surprised if Nigeria win the World Cup one day – maybe with me. It's just a matter of time and moment. Everything is possible. Impossible is nothing.”
Likewise, 2013 Confederations Cup bronze medallists Italy are confident of going far at the 2014 World Cup. Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus icon Gianluigi Buffon declared:
“You will see the real Italy in Brazil - the problem will be for those who will have to deal with us, not the other way around.”
In the meantime, the Azzurri have a showdown against the Super Eagles in Monday’s only blockbuster international fixture. The Italians displayed an impressive performance in a 1-1 draw against Germany last Friday and will want to maintain their momentum. That said, the pressure will be on fringe players to honour their shirt and give Cesare Prandelli a reason to feel satisfied about his squad.
The former Fiorentina manager has promised “to put out an entirely new team” against the Nigerians. Can the latter take advantage of that and celebrate their World Cup qualification in style with a rare African victory against a top European side at senior level?
Where to watch the match – live stream, start time, TV channels, live scores
Watch Italy vs Nigeria live on Monday, November 18, 2013:
In Canada at 14:45 ET on: beIN Sport Play Canada
In USA at 14:45 ET on: beIN Sport Play, beIN Sport USA, beIN Sport en Español
Watch this international friendly match on SuperSport Select and SuperSport 3 Africa in Nigeria and on RAI Uno in Italy. For worldwide live listings and live scores, visit the Italy-Nigeria match page.
