Nigeria vs Morocco: 3 Things the Super Eagles Must Get Right

Nigeria is facing a Morocco team that is very organised and hard to break down. Morocco will try to control the game with calm passing and smart defending. Nigeria can win, but only if they solve three clear problems: 

Morocco’s tight defence, Morocco’s control in midfield, and Morocco’s strong play on the wings.

Morocco Defends Very Tight in the Middle

Morocco keep many players close together, especially in the centre. This makes it hard for Nigeria to pass through the middle or find space behind the midfield.

Nigeria must move the ball faster and smarter. Nigeria should not keep passing in front of Morocco’s midfield. Instead, players must make quick runs to pull Morocco out of position. When Nigeria’s wingers get the ball, they should not stay too wide and stop. They must try to receive the ball in better areas, closer to the box, where they can cut inside or play quick passes.

If Nigeria can force Morocco’s defenders to turn and run back, Morocco’s tight shape will start to open.

Morocco Can Control the Game From Midfield

Morocco like to slow the match down. They keep the ball for long periods and make you run after it. If Nigeria chase too much, they will get tired and lose focus.

Nigeria must stay compact in midfield. The centre must be protected at all times. Nigeria should allow Morocco to pass in safe areas, but block passes into dangerous areas.

When Nigeria win the ball, they must not give it away quickly. If Nigeria keep the ball for a few seconds longer each time, they will reduce Morocco’s control and create chances to attack.

Morocco Can Overload the Wings

Morocco like to attack using the wings. They often bring two players to one side to create a 2 vs 1 against Nigeria’s fullback. From there, they can cross or cut the ball back into the box.

Nigeria must defend the wings as a unit. The winger must help the fullback. The nearest midfielder must move across early. Nigeria should not allow easy cut-backs from the byline, because those are very dangerous.

It is better to force Morocco to cross from far away than to let them get close to the goal line.

Nigeria Must Counterattack Well

If Nigeria decide to defend deeper, then counterattacks must be sharp and organised. Nigeria need a good first pass when they win the ball, and runners must join the attack quickly.

Nigeria should also attack the space behind Morocco’s fullbacks when they move forward. One good counterattack can change the whole match and put Morocco under pressure.

If Nigeria solve these three problems, they can win a tight game with discipline, patience, and one big moment.