Sunday, 8 June 2014

Altidore’s brace sinks Super Eagles in friendly

Sunderland's Jozy Altidore scored a brace in each half, as the USA beat Nigeria 2-1 in a friendly played in Jacksonville on Saturday night.
Stephen Keshi started with Shola Ameobi upfront and Juwon Oshaniwa came in for the injured Echiejile at left-back. Although the Super Eagles started brightly, it was the Americans that created the better chances with their quick passing and movement.
It was not a surprise when they took the lead shortly before the break. Fabian Johnson ghosted into the Nigerian area and his cut back was tucked into the net by Altidore, who has not scored for either club or country in 2014.
The big striker doubled his tally in the second half. He controlled a lofted pass from Bradley and turned Yobo inside out,  before lashing past Enyeama. Victor Moses was fouled late in the match and dusted himself to score the penalty, to ensure the African champions got a consolation.