WC 2018: Fatau Dauda optimistic Nigeria will qualify to round of 16

Ghanaian goalkeeper Fatau Dauda has predicted that Nigeria will progress into the round of 16 from Group D at this year’s FIFA World Cup in Russia.

The Nigeria based shot-stopper is optimistic that the West African nation has all it takes to bounce back from their first defeat against Croatia to progress to the knockout stage of the Mundial.

Nigeria are in the World Cup Group D with Argentina, Iceland and Croatia.

The Super Eagles were defeated in their opening fixture against Croatia 2-0, Mario Mandzukic’s 32nd-minute header from a Luka Modric corner was deflected into his own net by Oghenekaro Etebo and Luka Modric secured the win from the penalty spot 19 minutes from time after William Troost-Ekong fouled Mario Mandzukic in the penalty box.

Nigeria now face a herculean task to advance beyond the first round in Russia but in an exclusive interview with 442gh.com, the Black Stars goalie is optimistic about the chances of the 3-time African champions looking at the array of talents in their squad.

“I know a lot of people tip Nigeria to do well because of the players at their disposal. Most of their players play for top teams in Europe and they play regularly for their teams”

“I know Nigeria will do well in the World Cup. Now they’ve lost their first game and I know they will bounce back in the second match (against Iceland)”

A well-organised Iceland team held Argentina to a 1-1 draw in their opening game.