- France were the clear favourites ahead of the game because of their splendid form in the group stages. Having said that, everyone knew Nigeria will be no pushovers!
- France started brightly with both the full backs attacking as well. Benzema was being played out of position on the left to accommodate Giroud in the middle.
- Open start to the game as Nigeria had some possession of their own and looked to attack.
- Nigeria looked settled now and started creating a few opportunities. They get a free kick but it was blazed over the bar by Emenike.
- OFFSIDE GOAL! Great cross in and Emenike finishes but the referee gives offside. Replays suggest it was offside but only just. So close for Nigeria.
- Now France have a chance of their own now, great save from Enyeama! Pogba has a one-two with Valbuena before he shoots on goal.
- Both teams get a couple of half chances before half time but can’t convert. Pogba is playing particularly well and Valbuena seems to be involved in all of France’s moves.
- Half Time.
- Nigeria start the second half better. Moses plays a good cross in (YES! MOSES! :P) but it’s cut out by Varane. Good work from the Real Madrid man there!
- Great chance for Debuchy on the counter after Valbuena sets it up for him on the edge of the box, but he can only hit it wide. This Lannister (Valbuena) lad is a smart bouy!!
- Griezmann ON for Giroud. That’s what everybody had been calling for. Not been Giroud’s night. Maybe he should just go back to playing with Celia Kay! xP
- Odemwingie has go at the goal. He looks dangerous on the break!
- France has suddenly increased the tempo and they are going for the kill.
- OFF THE LINE! Good link up play from France. Benzema has a shot cleared off the line.
- More pressure from France as they are dominating the game now.
- OFF THE BAR! Nigeria somehow survive that! Cabaye rattles the woodwork after a good France move.
- GOOOOOAAAALLL! Pogba. It had been coming. Enyeama at fault there. Couldn’t punch hard it enough and Pogba scores with his head.
- Enyeama has been brilliant throughout but his mistake cost the goal there. Hard luck.
- Nigeria look to attack now, as they need a goal to stay in this. (We all know, they can't!! xP)
- OWN GOAL! France 2-0. Surely, it is game over. Valbuena play a nice ball in from short corner but it misses the incoming Griezmann, hits the defenders leg and beats the keeper.
- Full Time: France 2-0 Nigeria
What Twitter had to say?
Nigeria put in a good performance but this French team was always going to be good enough for them. France had total control of the game towards the end and showed the world what they are made of. They now face Germany in the next round. A very tough game but considering Germany’s performance last night, we can surely say everything is possible although both the team will have to be at their best to qualify.