Exciting Nigeria, Disappointing Brazil

Constant attacking playing style combined with lethal finishing, Nigeria gave Belgium a 4-1 whipping. As i predicted, Belgium's defense without both their first choice centre back, could not cope with Nigeria's constant running and quick passing. Olubayo Adefemi scored for Nigeria as early as the 17th minute, keeping his composure to slot the ball home from a tight angle after receiving a pass in the penalty box. Nigeria's second goal came in the 59th minute when Obinna gain possession outside the Belgium penalty box and lay the ball on for an unmarked Obasi to volley home expertly. Obasi then proceed to help himself to a second goal with a spectacular drive from long range which crash into goal off the post. Okonkwo's 78th minute goal was the icing on the cake as Nigeria has stamped their passport to the finals. Belgium regained what's left of their little dignity when a thunderous freekick from Laurent Ciman when in.

Nigeria progressed to the finals in style, winning 4-1 at the end of 90 minutes.

The same cannot be said of Brazil who was overpowered and overwhelmed by winners Argentina 3-0. In what was deemed as the classic clash between two powerhouses, Brazil looked woefully poor. To concede 3 goals, score none and have 2 players sent off is a disgrace for the great samba nation who worship soccer. Though Argentina's first goal is some what lucky when a cross from the left deflected off striker Sergio Aguero's stomach into the net. As the chinese saying goes, luck and opportunity are self created through hardwork and Argentina had definately created their own luck.

It was luck that brought Argentina their first goal, but the same can't be said of the second when Aguero claimed his second goal with an expertly taken shot from close range. In the 75th minute, the game was effectively over when Rafinha brought Aguero down in the penalty box and Argentina skipper Juan Riquelme converted the resulting spot kick. 3-0 and Argentina was cruising on a comfortable lead. Unlike Belgium, who fought to regain what's left of their pride and dignity, Brazil chose to throw them all away when Lucas and Thiago Neves was red carded one after the other in a span of just three minutes. The manner of exit and discipline of field is a total embarassment for the footballing nation. With the bronze medal to fight for on Friday, let's hope the Brazil players can pick themselves up to at least put on a decent and disciplined performance.

Congratulations to Nigeria and Argentina who have advanced to the final where they will meet each other on 23rd August for the Finals showdown. May the best team win.