Etebo Scores Four As Nigeria Beat Stubborn Japan In Olympic Thriller

The Nigeria U23 Olympic team started their campaign on a good note, as they beat Japan 5-4 in a dramatic encounter that kept their dream of winning an Olympic gold alive. The group B match which took place in Manaus was played a few hours the Nigerian team arrived Brazil in the early hours of Friday. Oghenekaro Etebo was the star who drew the curtain to determine the winner,after scoring four goals, while Umar Sadiq sealed the match for Nigeria by scoring his only goal which ensured victory for Nigeria. On four occasions Nigeria took the lead, and on three occasions Japan came back, as the first half ended in 3-2, before Etebo extended the lead in the second half to put the scoreline at 4-2. A late goal from Japan put the scoreline at 5-4, with the Asian champions hoping that they could achieve more, but it was too late as the final whistle came from the referee after 5 minutes added time which guaranteed Nigeria's success. Technically both teams were weak in defense, leading to high number of goals, but the attack of both sides lived up to expectations, making good use of the chances created. Nigeria are now on top of group B with three points and are expected to play Sweden on Sunday, while Colombia will face Japan.