Nigeria holds Italy to 2-2 Draw in London
Oladunjoye Opeyemi
Italy and Nigeria played out a thrilling 2-2 draw in an international friendly Monday night at Fulham’s Craven Cottage in London.
Giuseppe Rossi marked his return to Italy’s starting lineup with a 12th-minute goal, following a good assist by Mario Balotelli.
Nigeria equalised in the 35th minute through Bright Dike, who headed in Shola Ameobi’s cross from the left. Five minutes later, Ameobi got on the scoresheet with an impressive volleyed goal from a tight angle. Nigeria took a 2-1 lead into half-time.
Balotelli started a flowing move on the right, and Emanuele Giaccherini slammed in the finish on the left in the 47th minute.
The Super Eagles held their own as Pirlo and Diamante, both substitutes early in the second half piled down crosses and shots over the Nigerian half of the field.
The Match saw Craven’s Cottage come to life as the stadium was filled with Nigerian and Italian Supporters who were not left disappointed with the quality of play from both teams