Nigeria Keep Shola Ameobi Under Wraps v Lionel Messi
Nigeria have neglected to start with Shola Ameobi in their crucial final group match today, whereas Argentina go with their heavyweights Messi, Aguero, Higuain, Di Maria and so on.
A point for Nigeria would ensure their progress to the knockout stages, while a point for Argentina would mean they’d definitely top the group and avoid an almost certain meeting with in-form France.
If Nigeria do end up as runners up, which is the most likely outcome unless Iran overcome Bosnia-Herzegovina, then it would open up the distinct possibility of Shola Ameobi coming face to face with Debuchy, Sissoko and Cabaye in the last sixteen.
The fact that Argentina are fielding such a strong team underlines how focused they are on top spot in the group and the next round, whether Nigeria can withstand the expected pressure and set things up for supersub Shola remains to be seen.
Kick-off is 5pm this (Wednesday) afternoon and the full match is live on ITV.
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