Nigeria Beats Bosnia 1:0

Odewingie and Emenike

CUIABA, Brazil — Nigeria eliminated Bosnia-
Herzegovina from World Cup contention with a 1-0
win over the tournament newcomers on Saturday,
with Peter Odemwingie's first-half goal getting the
African champions closer to the knockout stage.
Odemwingie sealed Nigeria's first victory at a World
Cup since 1998 — spanning 10 matches — by
finishing from close range in the 29th minute after
one of a string of powerful runs by fellow striker
Emmanuel Emenike.

Bosnia faded after a bright start, during which star
striker Edin Dzeko had a goal contentiously
disallowed for offside, and is still without a point in
Group F following a 2-1 defeat to Argentina in its
opener.
A draw would have given the Bosnians something to
play for in its last group match, against Iran, but
Dzeko had a shot tipped onto the post by goalkeeper
Vincent Enyeama in the final few seconds, ending
their hopes.
Nigeria needs a point against Argentina on
Wednesday to be guaranteed a spot in the Round of
16 — and a surprise win would secure top spot in the
group.
With Africa's five teams starting the World Cup with
just one win from their first eight matches, the
continent was able to enjoy a rare success in Brazil.
There had also been added motivation for Stephen
Keshi's team, which was seeking to boost the spirits
of Nigerians back home in the wake of a suicide
bombing attack at a World Cup viewing site in the
northeast of their country. At least 14 people died in
the blast.
Nigeria was too strong and experienced for the
Bosnians, whose soft center in defense failed to deal
with the power of Emenike in energy-sapping
conditions in the western Brazilian city of Cuiaba.
And the recall of Odemwingie, who was impressive as
a substitute in the 0-0 draw with Iran, gave Nigeria
an extra goal threat — demonstrated by his calm
finish.
Emenike powered past the tame challenge of Bosnia
defender Emir Spahic and charged down the right
flank before crossing for Odemwingie, who shot
first-time through the legs of goalkeeper Asmir
Begovic — his teammate at English club Stoke.