As exclusively reported by Owngoalnigeria.com FC Porto defender Chidozie Awaziem will start ahead of Chelsea loanee Kenneth Omeruo in the heart of Nigeria’s defence alongside William Troost-Ekong.
Awaziem made his international debut for Nigeria against Togo last few days ago, but the 20 year old has gotten the nod to start ahead of Omeruo who has been a stalwart at the back for Nigeria since 2013.
Owngoalnigeria.com gathered the decision to start Awaziem was taken by Rohr in France as he did several drills with the defenders ahead of the South Africa game, Omeruo didn’t make it to their camp in France while Awaziem did.
The Porto man interpreted correctly the drills in the friendly game against Togo which Nigeria won 3- 0 , and during training in Uyo, he was once again at his best leaving the coach with no option than to hand him a start.
Furthermore Rohr believes South Africa forward Tokelo Rantie has a physiological edge over Omeruo after he literally destroyed the 24 year old few years ago in an AFCON qualifier at same venue.
Osas Mahawi
