Nigeria are going to face Argentina tomorrow in their final group D game of the World Cup 2018 in Russia. A game where a win will see them progress regardless of what happens in the other group game between Croatia and Iceland.
Argentina on their part need a win against Nigeria and that will be enough to see them progress from the group if Croatia who are already through to the next round beat Iceland in the other group game. A situation which has made the game against Nigeria more intriguing than it is on paper.
Yesterday, FIFA confirmed the appointment of referee Cuneyt Cakir as centre referee for the game and it has been viewed by many as controversial because the Turkish referee has in the past confessed his love and admiration for Argentina super star forward Lionel Messi.
Cakir described the five time best player in the world as his favourite and has officiated games which has ended in favour of teams of Messi, the most memorable which didn’t go the way of Messi with him in the middle was the UEFA Champions League clash which ended 3-3 between Barcelona and Chelsea with Chelsea progressing and Messi missing a spot kick.
Soccer loving Nigerians will be hoping to see their beloved team do well against Argentina despite the appointment of Cakir who will be assisted by his fellow Argentines Bahattin Duran, Tarik Ongun and Dutchman Bjorn Kuipers.
Osas Mahawi
