Stop it! Enyeama is no overnight goalkeeping hero

Vincent Enyeama continued to make waves as an outstanding goalie after helping his French Ligue1 side, Lille to a huge win against top side Olympique Marseille Tuesday night.

It was another brilliant performance from the Nigeria captain who stretched his clean sheet to 11 successive games and 1035minutes without conceding a single goal, and 13 shut-outs from 16 matches this season.

Enyeama made four incredible saves, including a double one, as a rampaging Marseille bombarded his defence line, with his fiery look offering an impression of a man who was not ready to surrender his terrific streak. The cameras were on him, and suddenly there was more interest in a Ligue1 game than ever.

The countdown to history has begun, as the Super Eagles star closes in on Gaetan Huard’s 1,176minutes of clean sheet set in 1993, with Lille set to face Bordeaux (away) and Bastia (home) as the next games where the milestone could be re-written. 142minutes left to negotiate.

 Enyeama  with teammates after his heroics  Marseille.          PHOTO: LOSC 

Unsurprisingly, we have been hearing some interesting arguments on the impregnability of the Lille defence in a desperate attempt to downplay the contribution of the Nigerian. Without taking anything away from the performance of his club’s backline,  Enyeama’s stats of having kept out the last 33 shots he had faced (opta) doesn’t suggest he has merely benefited from being shielded by a Berlin Wall.

Then we’ve got the naysayers of “he’s just having a great season”. How dare you plant Enyeama into that ‘one-season wonder’ football cliché? Well you may not have heard of him, but sorry, you are probably a neophyte in international football affairs, not only at African level, but also the biggest stage.

Born 29, August, 1982, Enyeama had led Nigerian top division side Enyimba of Aba to national title in 2001 and repeated the feat in 2002, the same year he made his debut for his country in a preparatory match against Kenya barely a month to the start of the 2002 World Cup.

He got the nod from the then Nigeria coach and FIFA instructor, Adegboye Onigbinde who hurriedly assembled a fresh team after taking over from Amodu Shuaibu, the man who successfully oversaw the qualification campaign.

After his team’s losses to Argentina and Sweden in their opening two games, Onigbinde gave an acid test to the young Enyeama who was the understudy to national number one, Ike Shorunmu. He showed a nervy start but then pulled the save of the game diverting Paul Scholes’ customary pile-driver onto the upright. It was a watershed to greatness, but many never took notice.

A year later, the Nigeria captain led Enyimba to a domestic and continental double, becoming the first club in the country to win the CAF Champions League title, an African trophy he helped retained in 2004. He then joined local rivals, Heartland after which he left for Isreali side, Bnei Yehuda in 2005. It was somewhat an inauspicious move because Enyeama’s profile had risen tremendously on the continent.

Yet the goalkeeper remained consistent with his form and made another incredible mark at the 2006 African Cup of Nations competition where he helped the Super Eagles to a bronze medal feat, his second after achieving the same honour in his debut participation in 2004, . He saved FOUR penalties; one in the 15th minute to protect Nigeria’s early lead and three in the penalty shoot-out, including the deciding kick in the quarter finals of the Egypt 2006 edition.

Enyeama then led little known Bnei Yehuda to UEFA Cup qualification that year and consequently joined a more respectable Israeli outfit Hapoel Tel-Aviv, for whom he played in UEFA Champions League qualifiers. The goalkeeper also had a stint with Maccabi Tel Aviv and was notable as a penalty shooting specialist, apart from his shot-stopping exploits and won league and cup titles in the last two Israeli clubs.

The goalkeeper lost his national team place briefly to Austin Ejide’s whose towering frame and form was preferred by the then coach, Berti Vogts as he led Nigeria to the 2008 Nations Cup where the team failed to progress beyond the quarter finals. But he reclaimed his top spot soon after, helping the side to another bronze in the 2010 tournament in Angola.

Enyeama went on to rubbish possible suggestions that he was playing in a small league with successive official man-of-the-match awards in Nigeria’s opening two games against Argentina and Greece at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. He denied the best tormentor there probably ever was, Lionel Messi, several times with outstanding saves to the frustration of their coach, Diego Maradona.

He was linked to a move to Premier League sides Bolton and Arsenal at different times, yet none materialised. Then after moving to Lille in 2011, he never had the opportunity until this season when he made his breakthrough.

By the way, is playing in a lowly rated team a yardstick to measure talent? Not a rule of thumb in football.  Yaya Toure was considered not good enough after his trial at Arsenal and had to move to Ukraine instead, and then Olympiacos, Monaco before his big move to Barcelona in summer 2007. In contrast brother Kolo was however signed by Wenger from Ivory Coast and he became a huge hit

Again, despite having won the 1995 Champions League trophy with home team Ajax and playing for Juventus, Edwin van Der Saar still had to join Fulham, an average team, before securing a great move to Manchester United and became a bigger goalkeeping icon.In contrast,  Jussi Jaaskelainen would not be reckoned with as a great goalie in Europe just because he spent his best years playing for Bolton.

George Weah never had a chance to win anything with his national team, Liberia, but he got to the pinnacle and became the world best in 1995 via an incredible club career involving spells at Monaco, PSG and AC Milan.

So before you trivialise Enyeama’s goalkeeping career, think again.

Eagles: some lessons from history

Nigeria face Ethiopia in the first leg of what has easily been described as an easy fixture, this weekend, as we battle for the final phase of the 2014 World Cup qualifiers.

Admittedly, one will have to say the Super Eagles enjoyed the luck of the draws, considering the fact Cote d’Ivoire are up against Senegal; Ghana will battle Egypt; Cameroun are up against Tunisia while Burkina Faso’s destiny is tied to the outcome of their fixture with Algeria.

Yes Nigeria have enjoyed a decent experience under the current manager, Stephen Keshi, in terms of record with 46.43% wins and 26.79% draws since his appointment in November 2011. It’s a performance which has led to the country’s first African Nations Cup in almost a decade and a not-so-bad outing at the FIFA Confederations Cup in Brazil in July.

Keshi’s steady progress with the team has once again stimulated the interest of Nigerians in the activities of the national team albeit it is important to note Nigeria have had to struggle a lot to reach this stage of the World Cup qualifiers. Despite our continental conquest in South Africa, the trio of Kenya, Namibia and Malawi have held the Eagles to draws.

The Harambee Stars of Kenya actually recorded their draws on their trip to Nigeria in a group F qualifier, a warning that the Eagles cannot afford a defeat in Addis Ababa this weekend, in order to avoid a nervy second leg in Calabar next month.

A cursory look at our pedigree in the world cup qualify campaigns in the past indicates the Eagles have never had an easy route, even against teams which could be referred to as minnows in African football.

1978 qualifiers

Nigeria had finished with bronze in the 1976 AFCON in Ethiopia where two of our players, Haruna Ilerika and Kunle Awesu made the best XI of the tournament won by Morocco, who had just one more named. So we had a strong team. Tunisia were not in the competition.

And after edging out Sierra Leone and Cote d’Ivoire in the previous rounds, the Eagles had put themselves in a terrific position by holding Tunisia to a goalless draw on September 25, 1977 in the final round of qualifiers for Spain 1982 Mundial.

 It looked a certainty in Lagos on a beautiful day of November 12, 1977 until the Eagles midfielder, Godwin Odiye scored an own goal to give the North Africans the World Cup ticket.

1982

Just like at present, the national team then called the Green Eagles were the reigning African champions, having triumphed on home soil in 1980 with a terrific squad including the likes of Emmanuel Okala, Segun Odegbami, Adokiye Amiesimaka, Christian Chukwu, Felix Owolabi and Muda Lawal.

Yet later that year, on June 6, 1980, Tanzania, who had finished bottom of our AFCON group with only a point, held our Eagles at home to a 1-1 draw after Nigeria had led the game 1-0 at half time. Well we went to Dar es Salaam to defeat them 2-0 the Eagles couldn’t escape elimination from the qualifying campaign in the next round.

Algeria, who the Eagles had trounced 3-0 in the final to become African kings shocked football lovers by avenging the defeat on our soil, beating the Eagles 2-0 on October 10, 1981 before confirming their ticket in Algiers at  2-1, 20 days later.

The above were in the period Nigeria had formidable teams and were expected to qualify for the competition but failed, even though it could be argued the oppositions. What the 2006 World Cup qualifiers where we failed again in a group consisting of Algeria (who had suffered a decline, and still do, in football) Rwanda, Gabon, Angola and Zimbabwe?

A defeat in Angola early in the qualifiers was enough to sound a strong warning for the Eagles. But it took a late goal from Obafemi Martins to rescue Nigeria from a lone goal defeat in Kigali in June 2005 before Angola shocked the Eagles with a 1-1 in the sunny Kano in June 2005.

That result in Kano turned to be the most disappointing outcome in the campaign as the Palancas Negras eliminated Nigeria on head-to-head rule after both teams tie on points. For a team comprising of Austin Okocha, Joseph Yobo, Obafemi Martins, Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Vincent Enyeama and Osaze Odemwingie, the 2006 World Cup qualifying campaign disaster was one of our lowest moments.

It was a low point for the Eagles led by Christian Chukwu but it heralded Angola as  debutantes in the Mundial in Germany.

As the Eagles fly out to Ethiopia for the first leg of the phase to Brazil, the words of Spain-born philosopher and essayist, George Santayana comes to mind. "Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”

Be careful Eagles, be careful.

 Jose's evolution still echoes his pragmatism

 Jose Mourinho took the extraordinary step to explain his controversial move of publicly declaring Oscar as the playmaker of his new Chelsea team on Saturday night.

 Mourinho was on SkySports’ post-match television interview where he gave candid view after his side bounced back to winning path with a 2-0 triumph over Fulham at Stamford Bridge following successive defeats to Everton and Basel.

 He said: “ I understand a lot of people like (Juan Mata) and believe he should play in that position but he has to adapt to the way we play because I’m not trying to change Oscar’s position. I think Oscar is a number 10, a player that gives us so much creativity but at the same time, when we want to press up (the pitch), he is a runner, a player capable of press(ing).”

 You can hardly fault that appraisal from the manager who went on to speak about Mata after being probed further on his expectations from the little Spaniard who who was not even considered for the substitutes bench for the Fulham clash.

UNCERTAINTY: Mata has struggled to fit into in Mourinho's plans

“Juan has to learn how to play the way I want to play. He has to be more consistent, more participative when the team lose the possession of the ball”, say the Blues manager who went on to make an incredible suggestion that Mata’s style had suited Chelsea’s ‘defensive style’ of play in the last few years.

 “I think it’s not his fault, it’s a consequence of the way he is playing in the last years. Since he arrived Chelsea was playing very defensive football with a low-block all the time.”

 No one is likely to win the tactical battle with the Portuguese considering his pedigree, and more importantly, his achievements in the game, neither would you be able to disregard his charm when he makes his points.

 But after watching the team against the Cottagers and as well as hearing Mourinho talk about the long term plan of evolution and style of his ‘ideal’ Chelsea, it is difficult to accept his arguments regarding non-suitability of Mata as the key playmaker.

 He said: “the ideal is to play high-block, to recover the ball very fast, to build well (from defence), to control the game, to be pro-active not reactive. The ideal is to have the ball possession and use it in a proper way and in my opinion we are not doing very well at the moment when the opponents close too much.”

 It is not difficult to figure out this is not a new philosophy, and Mourinho admitted it was not his style but one which was agreed upon with his employers. It’s a mission the Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has been pursuing since his appointment of Felipe Scolari, then aggressively attempted with of Andre Villas-Boas in charge. Mourinho admitted it was not his style but which was agreed upon with his employers.

 Villas-Boas revolutionised the high-block defending at Chelsea, a decision against which senior squad members revolted and eventually led to his dismissal after a poor run overthrown an interesting start to his tenure. Yet it is fair to say his successor Roberto Di Matteo exploited the defensive strategy claimed by Mourinho, as the Blues went on to win the UEFA Champions League.

 Roberto Di Matteo was forced to change his conservative style at start of last season after his interim deal lapsed, especially with the arrival of Eden Hazard and Oscar. Again it produced some of the club’s best attacking football with Mata, at times playing on the right in a 4-2-3-1 before another poor run led to the change of manager.

 But then Rafa Benitez took over and built from low-block to medium-line defending and Chelsea returned to decent performances winning the Europa League and finishing third in the league. It has to be said that the team played a defensive game in the final against Benfica.

 Interestingly, Mata’s best spells were actually when the side played attacking and high-pressing football, and was terrible in both their Champions League and Europa League final matches, contrary to Mourinho’s claims.

The Spaniard loves the quick, short-passing that Mourinho hinted his new team is aiming to play. Mourinho’s new Chelsea have hardly demonstrated any high-pressing game since he took over in July, rather they have opted for defensive approach Bayern Munich and Manchester United, the two biggest matches of his new regime.  Surprisingly Mourinho didn’t feature the man he claimed is best suited for the style.

So how many top games are Chelsea going to play with defensive style in an era of ‘high-pressing’ game? We will have to wait to find out.

Mata’s record as a No 10 stands at 32 goals and 49 assists in 117 Chelsea appearances at the end of last season and it appears worrying that he is the main victim of reign which promises a more aggressive attacking football. The Blues attempted a highline defensive approach briefly against Fulham but the Cottagers left both John Terry and Gary Cahill flat as Darren Bent scoffed his shot straight at Petr Cech.

Mourinho is demanding that Mata proves him wrong by adapting to play on the right, not in his favourite central role. He’s trying to build a new playmaker with huge defensive participation, even though he’s already regimenting his wingers to defend to the byline and cover for full-backs.

So with two ultra-defensive central midfielders, Chelsea must be aiming for one of the most conservative attacking football, aren’t they? So far, they look like an incoherent counter-attacking side, rather than ‘pro-active’ Mourinho claimed.

The manager lamented after the Fulham game that Branislav Ivanovic was still launching aimless crosses as f Didier Drogba was still at Chelsea, yet ignored Azpilicueta who is a more technical & quicker defender.

Mata and Mesut Ozil are two of the best players in Europe with close control and movement between the lines which drags defensive opponents out of position, as well as possessing the intelligence to find the killer passes in the final third. Oscar is talented why hoping a talent matures in a role when you’ve got a proven alternative who is not in decline?

Mourinho moaned about defensive teams preventing his side to create chances, so it looks weird he does not see the need for Mata as the recipe for breakthrough. Instead he sees a weakness in him.

Surely, it doesn’t actually add up. Does it?


Written shortly after the Fulham game, published late

No kidding Jose, Chelsea are painful to watch

 “May your road be rough. I am not cursing you; I am wishing you what I wish myself every year! If you are not so sure what you should say back, why not just say, ‘Same to you’? I ask for no more.”

 These were lines from the late legendary Nigerian writer and activist, Tai Solarin from an article he published on the New Year day of 1964. The above words should offer some consolation and optimism to Chelsea fans after watching, agonisingly, as their team fell to an embarrassing 2-1 defeat Wednesday night to FC Basel of Switzerland.

 The dark part of the dawn is still to fade away in the new season, so it is quite early to press the panic button. Yet it’s the worst start to a campaign by any Blues team in a decade, so the fans’ frustration cannot be overemphasised. Not even when a team like Basel outwitted your team at home on a Champions League night.

But Jose Mourinho is under no illusion that the inquest has begun, regardless of his continuous clever attempt to play down expectations from his side by claiming they are a very young group.  He is surely aware that the team finished third last season and he has spent about £60million to fortify the team. They are an experienced side with quality young talents who are no novice in the game

 Mourinho has taken his side through pre-season, with top friendlies against the likes of AC Milan, Roma and Real Madrid, so he has had some time to reflect on the personality of his team, and the personnel suitable for success. 

 The defeat to Basel actually blew the lid on Chelsea’s unimpressive start to the season. They have had only two good performances, both coming inside the opening 45minutes. They were impressive in the first half of their season opening day win against Hull City and played really well at Everton until they conceded on the stroke of half time.

 Their defeat against Bayern Munich in the Super Cup was tight in result (lost on penalties) but their overall approach were conservative to limit danger more than entertain, just like they did at Old Trafford against Manchester United last month.

 Mourinho must take responsibility for how he has managed his squad and must start doing things differently if he wants a change. He needs to analyse why Chelsea are looking too predictable and are struggling to create chances.

 How predictable?  Chelsea are allowing their creative armoury to be shut down by two key problems; lack of dynamism and fluidity from the midfield in transition, and poor quality of support from full backs for attacking midfielders.

 Tactical formation and information are important, but the ability of the players to implement those ideas with their collective skills and intelligence are crucial to winning matches. For instance, Eden Hazard is a sort of player whose ability should put any full back on his back foot, but he can easily be frustrated if he is left alone to outwit two or more players (a defender and a supporting player) every time.

 Both Ashley Cole and Branislav Ivanovic, who have started all of the Blues’ games this season have failed to offer quality attacking width and reduce the burden of penetration on the shoulders of the playmakers behind the striker. What is happening to the duo of Juan Mata and Cesar Azpilicueta, two of the team’s top performers last season?

 Again in central midfield, Mourinho has struggled to find a solution to the problem of combining craft with defensive discipline. He has started box-to-box midfielders (Frank Lampard, Ramires and Marco Van Ginkel) in the holding role in all of his games except at Everton, where he opted for John Mikel Obi alongside Ramires. Michael Essien hasn’t featured for once, putting in doubts the decision to retain him for this season.

 It took David Luiz to find Hazard with a penetrative pass in the build-up to Chelsea's second goal in the Super Cup and the Brazilian was the lead creator again last night as he unlocked Basel for Oscar's strike, stepping into the middle to find Lampard who provided the assist.

While Luiz is primarily a centre back, it was no surprise that Rafa Benitez used him in the holding role, an indication there had been a problem with that position for a while.  Mourinho, though, signed Van Ginkel for that position, yet he only started his first game last night. So it doesn’t appear the Portuguese coach recognised the concern.

Van Ginkel and Lampard were both caught up inside the Basel’s territory during the counter attack leading to Muhammed Salah’s equaliser, with three players already engaging the Blues defenders. Both players still had another chance to intercept the cross leading to the goal but they were slow to react to the danger, perhaps a natural defensive midfielder could have done better.

The visitors’ winning goal was a devastator, as Marco Streller lost Gary Cahill to plant home a brilliant near-post header.

 “Our successes are conditioned by the amount of risk we are ready to take”, Solarin remarked in that famous article. Perhaps Mourinho will look to taking fresh risks to salvage the situation than relying on trusted lieutenants. As it stands, it’s not working.

Mourinho facing big calls ahead of Man Utd tie

After 180 minutes of football on his return as the Chelsea manager, Jose Mourinho must have learnt the work at his disposal is much more than a Wayne Rooney solution.

The Blues boss confirmed that his club won’t make another bid for the Manchester United striker before his side’s crunch tie at Old Trafford on Monday night. But the indications emerging from the the Hull City game and Wednesday night’s hard-fought win over Aston Villa suggest that the Portuguese has a pretty huge task as he attempts to build another formidable team. Chelsea are European contenders, not just a Premier League club.

Thirty minutes of frenetic attacking football saw Mourinho’s men dominate at Stamford Bridge as Hull adopted a cautious start to the game at Stamford Bridge on Sunday as the home side ran rings around them with many missed opportunities.

But once the Tigers settled into the game and started playing with courage, it limited the power of the midfield duo of Ramires and Lampard to dictate proceedings. Hence the attacking trio of Oscar, Kevin De Bruyne and Eden Hazard struggled to create chances for Fernando Torres, and Lukaku, who later replaced the Spaniard.  From then on, it was about being solid and compact.

Aston Villa, who beat Arsenal at the Emirates last weekend, must have drawn inspiration from Hull’s bravery in the second half at Stamford Bridge. They therefore stopped the freedom enjoyed by Chelsea’s pivot men, pressing them high and forcing them to face their goal quite often. Paul Lambert's men sometimes had four men hassling into their opponents’ half to distort their rhythm.

It made Ramires and Lampard less effective and rendered the trio of Hazard, Oscar and Juan Mata ineffective. Then as Chelsea attempted to beat the freeze, Villa played a great high line defensive to frustrate their hosts.

These are areas that would interest David Moyes and United. The former Everton manager could employ the pace and work ethic of Danny Welbeck to lead the shutdown in Chelsea’s central midfield while hoping that Michael Carrick could do a great job affecting play when the Blues lose possession. Carrick could also be the danger man to release the on-form Robin Van Persie should Mourinho ask his defenders to squeeze play by playing highline.

Ramires, a mobile player, has understandably, played the standing midfielder role in the two games as Lampard loves going forward to bang the goals, but it could be more difficult to isolate the centre backs against the great movement and devastating finishing of Van Persie.

Mourinho will have to decide whether to leave the club’s record scorer out in a big game. Lampard featured in last season’s victory at Old Trafford, albeit the title had virtually been decided at that the time. The manager has at his disposal Dutch youngster, Marco Van Ginkel who did a tactically impressive job in a pre-season loss to Real Madrid, while his Mr reliable, Michael Essien is also in contention for a place in the side.

Van Ginkel could be an interesting risk as it means he would be making his first start at the 75,000 capacity. His motivation to impress his new boss could lead him into edgy decisions and make him vulnerable to mistakes. Yet starting the Dutchman against United could be a masterstroke- many would recall Oscar’s first start against Juventus at Stamford Bridge in the Champions League last season remains arguably his most memorable match for the Blues.

 Essien’s experience could be important against United, especially playing in his natural position, unlike Lampard. The Ghanaian who enjoys tremendous trust from his manager can be deployed for ‘special job’ and Mourinho is a man of surprises-he played centre-back Pepe in the midfield to thwart Messi and Barcelona during his spell as the Real Madrid manager.  Essien’s choice though looks a distant decision having not featured at all in the first two games.

Another obvious concern remains the choice of the three players behind the striker. Kevin De Bruyne who was named man-of-the-match against Hull was left on the bench for 90minutes to accommodate Chelsea’s best player over the last two seasons, Juan Mata who returned from injury. The Spaniard was largely quiet playing on the right while Oscar is preferred in the hole behind the striker.

Oscar seems certain to retain his place, being a big away game, because of the tenacity he combines with inventiveness, while Hazard looks the most dangerous of the team’s abundant pool of creative talents. So will the boss recall the intelligent De Bruyne or reunite the trio who already have the experience of playing the Red Devils several times last season? Big decision to make and it could be interesting as the UEFA Super Cup comes on Friday.

Mourinho will also have to decide whether to recall his £50million striker, Fernando Torres after leaving him out of the squad for the Villa game or select the young Romelu Lukaku who featured as substitutes in the first two games. After replacing Torres against Hull on Sunday, the Belgian, again, came on for the misfiring Demba Ba, troubled Paul Lambert’s backline. He came close to scoring, firing just inches away from goal. He also held the ball up, with purpose, better than his Senegalese counterpart.

Lukaku scored a hat trick against United on the last day of last season while on loan at West Bromwich Albion where he plundered 17 league goals. Considering claims has been assured of a key role in the team this season, perhaps his performance against the champions at the Hawthorns could earn him a start at Old Trafford tomorrow.

The Chelsea manager should also be worried by the performance of the duo of John Terry and Gary Cahill, who both looked unconvincing against Villa. Terry failed to close down Christian Benteke for Villa’s goal while it took two brilliant saves from Petr Cech to prevent Andreas Weimann from punishing the Blues. Gabriel Agbonlahor also came close with a curling strike that went just wide.

And considering the chances manufactured by Villa who had only 39 percent of possession all game, Mourinho and his Chelsea side must be concerned against the ruthless Van Persie who would fancy himself against such porosity.

Clearly the Blues have suffered from the absence of a much more mobile David Luiz who is still recovering from injury. Cesar Azpilicueta could be a good option at right back, allowing Mourinho to move Ivanovic into central defence in place of the struggling Cahill.

These are interesting calls to be made to get results and sustain team harmony. But then, Mourinho has the pedigree of being one of the best managers capable of navigating these tasks with efficiency.

Let the shows begin

The wait is over and the boredom is set to be replaced by the excitement of the new Premier League season which gets underway today.

For Chelsea fans, it’s a refreshing feeling that was triggered by the arrival of the Jose Mourinho in June and now is the time when that bubbly buzz will be tested, beginning from the visit of Hull City Tigers to Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

The arrival of Felipe Scolari in July 2008 comes to mind with similar feeling of optimism ahead of the new Premier League season. He had won the with Brazil in style in 2002 and guided Portugal to the semi-finals of the 2006 World Cup in Germany before leading them to the quarter finals of 2008 European Championship.

Though Avram Grant led the Blues to the UEFA Champions League final, the Israeli coach never really won over the fans who were still peeved at the treatment meted out to Mourinho , his predecessor who won back-to-back league titles among other other trophies.

Scolari’s arrival thus became a huge lift, particularly as the fans expected him to bring flair to the side following criticisms of Mourinho’s style of play which was considered less expansive. The rest is history.

Carlo Ancelotti, who eventually won the domestic double, came in with scepticisms concerning his poor domestic championship record-he had just one Scudetto title in a decade both as Juventus and AC Milan manager. His successor Andre Villas-Boas’s appointment, though signed with a huge release clause, was seen a long-term project rather than immediate expectation of triumph.

So the return of The Special One has brought back the declining feel-good factor among the Blues faithful and everyone is looking forward to a remarkable challenge for the league title last won by the team in 2010.

Mourinho has tried to play down the expectations from his team this season, insisting he would be working with a talented group of young players whose best years are still ahead of them. Yet we know the Portuguese will be determined to go for every available honour beginning from this season. Such is his spirit of competitiveness, an attitude he has started inculcating in the current Chelsea team.

Real Madrid was their biggest challenge during their pre-season games yet the manner they fought back to level scores at 1-1 gave the glimpses of the fighting spirit typical of Mourinho’s teams. They however succumbed to the genius of Cristiano Ronaldo before stepping up their resilience to record a victory over Roma, again after being a goal down.

Ahead of the Blues kick off tomorrow, here is the XI  I believe could be the strongest side for the season and why:

PETR CECH: Remains the undisputed first choice for the team, and certainly one of the best goalkeepers of his generation. Cech took the reign from Carlo Cudicini at the start of Mourinho’s first spell and was hugely influential to the back-to-back EPL title success. The Czech goalkeeper will still be crucial to a great campaign this season.

CESAR AZPILICUETA: He gradually came into the team last season after arriving from Olympic Marseille and later took the right back mantle from Branislav Ivanovic. Azpi, like other players who took part in this year's FIFA Confederations Cup, hasn't enjoyed good a pre-season, but his defensive tenacity and ability to move swiftly into attacking positions still give him the edge. He only turns 24 later this month, he's got plenty of time to improve, especially on his crosses.

DAVID LUIZ: Mourinho insists he is key to his plans amidst interest from Barcelona and it is no surprise as Luiz remains one of the best modern day centre backs in Europe, with great personality on the pitch and ability to dictate play from the defence. Prone to occasional ill-timed enthusiasm on or off  the ball, he can be decisive at both ends of the pitch during games.

JOHN TERRY: Injuries troubled his performances last season and consequently lost confidence in his game. The skipper has been pumped up in pre-season but he will have to stay fit and perform to keep his place. Terry is still a leader to have in the team, especially for this young Chelsea team.

ASHLEY COLE: His performance dropped a bit last season but he is undoubtedly still the best in the team and among the best in the country. Cole’s energy has not actually waned with age and he is wary of Ryan Bertrand’s determination to take the spot off him. Still a great player.

MARCO VAN GINKEL: One of the team’s top performers in pre-season, he is an energetic midfielder who offers tremendous support on and off the ball, with huge prowess in helping the team’s transition. The former Vitesse star will have to learn fast in the EPL, but he already looks a shrewd acquisition in the midfield with his tidy passing and his desire to get the tackles in. One to watch.

RAMIRES: He is great asset in counter attack with his athleticism. Ramires, though not impressively endowed with passing finesse, scores goals and graft well defensively. Two qualities that could make him a Mourinho man in this season.

EDEN HAZARD: Clearly one of the most intelligent players in the team, his creativity and sheer class are evident. The Belgian star's maturity, after an impressive first season in England, will really play a crucial part in the team’s campaign this season. Hazard will need to brush up his scoring boots. His main strength lies on the left side of the attack and the freedom to rove around as well.

JUAN MATA: He has had a busy yet successful last two years and hopefully he is not hampered by injuries. Oscar has enjoyed the number 10 role in pre-season but Mata remains the brain of the team. His touches are sublime and his decision making is second to none as a traditional playmaker. Always a delight to watch.

KEVIN DE BRUYNE: One of the most exciting young talents in the team. De Bruyne exudes confidence and maturity beyound his age. His crosses are excellent and his decision making very good. He really improved his game while on loan at Werder Bremen last season and he looks ready to play a big part this season. His versatility-can play in central midfield and across the three spots behind the striker- will be of great importance to the squad.

ROMELU LUKAKU: The striking position is a tough call but among the options currently available (Wayne Rooney still a big target for the club), Lukaku seems to me the most motivated ahead the new season. His spell at West Brom last season, where he scored 17 goals has boosted his belief  and I won't be surprised to see him ahead of Fernando Torres in the pecking order.

Drumming the beat of mistrust

The worst challenge a man could face is trying to rescue another fellow who is ignorant of his own ignorance. Confused? Yes there are people who are ignorant in specific sphere of knowledge and are never ashamed of admitting it, and seeking support. Those ones would need help.

But there many others who claim to hold the sceptre of authority and expertise of a genre without having the basic understanding of intricacies of their responsibilities.

ON THE HOT SEAT: Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi

Following Nigeria’s ‘unimpressive’ showing at the FIFA Confederation Cup in Brazil, some brilliant quotes have emerged from those (past and present) in whose hands the country entrusted the affairs of her football. Permit me to bore you with some of the ‘words on the marble’ from the officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) after the Super Eagles campaign in Brazil. Epic stuff!

Shortly after Nigeria crashed 3-0 to Spain in a third group game that would be remembered for our players’ profligacy in front of goal, rather than performance, NFF President Aminu Maigari told reporters:

“Experience matters in all aspects of life. We are aware that we used some players that were not supposed to be in Brazil for the Confederations Cup. This is an eye opener, but we expect the coach to bring the players that have experience for the rest of the World Cup. You can’t beat Spain which is world's No 1 ranked team with home-based players.”

As if that was a fluke, the NFF boss reiterated his position in a more elaborate and ‘hairdryer’ (borrowing Sir Alex Ferguson’s famous trademark) interview on a TV programme, Soccer Africa, tearing into the Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi, some two days later. Sounds more like the military’s pre-coup lines which come after the infamous ‘fellow Nigerians’ preamble.

“This is unacceptable. We have experienced players that were not selected and this is where we have to step in.

'The coach doesn't have the sole responsibility on squad selection. We all have to contribute. This team belongs to 165 million people.Selections should affect all these people so we cannot continue to let this happen because we need to compete well with others."

Fair play to Maigari, he wasn’t alone with those lovely patriotic sentiments. Indeed he has the backing of his lieutenant in the Glass House, as the NFF secretariat is often called.

His vice-president, Mike Umeh told Vanguard paper: “Keshi need to get stronger boys and we have them. I don’t know why he has refused to bring in Osaze. Yes, we have always given him freedom to operate, but he must work closely with the technical committee.”

Then a former vice-chairman and technical committee of the NFF, Gen. Gregory Adebiyi, felt Keshi gave Spain the chance to avenge their 1998 World Cup defeat to Eagles, by fielding the local-based players in Brazil.

He told This Day: “Spain wanted to avenge and erase such dark spot in their football history especially as Nigeria was in the competition as African champions. It was definitely the best opportunity Spain got and because our team failed to face reality of the time, it worked to their favour.”

Some nice thoughts right? Yet Maigari had to play down his criticisms later by offering words of praise for Keshi after millions heard him on cable TV. Brilliant PR.

Let me state that I was one of the sceptics after Keshi’s appointment, which I referred to ‘business-as-usual’. Why? Because I had doubts he would be able to take bold moves that would resuscitate the dwindling fortunes of the national team.

But he began to impress me especially after seeing the home-based players in friendlies against Peru and Egypt. We lost both games but I felt it was looking good.

Keshi then took the courageous step of blanking the likes of Osaze Odemwingie and Obafemi Martins from the African Nations Cup and won the competition. Less than 24 hours after his team’s triumph in South Africa, he made an incredible claim that the NFF had prepared his sack letter and threatened to resign from his post.

Does anyone need a soothsayer to believe Keshi may have been right with his claims (NFF denied it) considering the above cynical quotes from his employers? So Keshi must have to listen to the views of 165million Nigerians on a roundtable to pick his team? Or needs an Odemwingie who averages one goal in every six games for the Eagles to salvage his strikeforce? Didn’t Nigerians see how Kenneth Omeruo took the centre back position from Captain Joseph Yobo and excelled at the Nations Cup?

Brazil coach, Felipe Scolari won only two games from his first seven games in charge after returning to his national post. Then he rallied his young team to win the Confederations Cup, steamrolling the European and world champions, Spain. What would have happened if Maigari and his men were leading the top echelon of Brazilian football authorities?

Football management is much more than team selections, a comprehensive knit that involves creating the right atmosphere and implementing well-thought structural plans that can promote development and long term success.

The NFF should be more concerned about the problem of recycling the same players for successive age grade competitions than spewing knee-jerk reactions, subject to team's results. The administrators will do well to look at development strategies that would help produce quality players from time to time, for the national team. Let Keshi do his job please!

It is never out of place to suggest Keshi and his team must learn from their experience in Brazil. But it is simply surface-scratching to claim the absence of some ‘experienced players’ is the reason we lost against the likes of Uruguay and Spain. Experience only counts if the competitive quality is still a key factor in reckoning.

I don’t envy Keshi any bit. His situation seems like that of the proverbial ‘unwanted wayfarer’ who told his hosts he has got melodious songs in his repertoire. Not sure who is going to join him in chorus. Tough luck,big boss.

CAF ban Enugu Rangers from Confed Cup

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has disqualified Nigerian Premier League club, Enugu Rangers from the Confederations Cup for fielding an ineligible player, Emmanuel Daniel against Tunisian Club, Sfaxien.

The Tunisian club had written to the continental club to protest against the Flying Antelopes who had eliminated them from the competition after Rangers fielded Daniel whose late registration should have made him ineligible for that encounter, CAF noted Tuesday afternoon.

Consequently, the African football ruling body has awarded Rangers' qualification slot to Sfaxien.

A CAF statement reads: "Further to the regulatory protest of the Tunisian Club Sportif Sfaxian (C.S.S.), the CAF Organising Committee for the Interclub Competitions has confirmed that player Daniel Emmanuel was not eligible to participate with Club Enugu Rangers in match number 90, played on June 2nd 2013, against the C.S.S., since the player had not been registered in a regulatory manner, in accordance with Article 25 of the Regulations governing the competition.

"Player Daniel Emmanuel had been given the authorisation to play with Enugu Rangers starting from April 2013. Accordingly, the player was ineligible to play with his team prior to the 2nd phase of registration, as stipulated by the Regulations of the competition (August 10th 2013).

"Therefore and in accordance with Article 28 of the Regulations governing the competition, the CAF Organising Committee for the Interclub Competitions confirms the elimination of the Nigerian Club Enugu Rangers from the 10th Edition of the Confederation Cup 2013, for having used an ineligible player in the aforementioned competition.

"Accordingly, Club Sportif Sfaxian (C.S.S.), which had been eliminated by the Enugu Rangers in the 2nd 1/8th finals of the Orange CC 2013, is called upon to replace them in the group matches of the said competition."

Keshi, Eagles need to Spanish lessons

Nigeria have just managed to win the African Cup of Nations for the first time in nearly two decades and the destructive egos is already creeping in.

Stephen Keshi claimed he dropped the likes of Osaze Odemwingie and Obafemi Martins to build a team of committed footballers who are ready to work as a unit. But looking at recent performances and problems around the squad, I think the Super Eagles coach will need to evaluate his work on his 'building a team' mission. Is the team moving in the right direction?

Appraisals are where you get together with your team leader and agree what an outstanding member of the team you are, how much your contribution has been valued, what massive potential you have and, in recognition of all this, would you mind having your salary halved.- Theodore Roosevelt, former president of the United States.

Interestingly, it looked like Rooselvelt had the Eagles in mind when he made the statement above, especially amidst the fiasco over unpaid bonuses for Nations Cup success. I personally do not agree with those criticising the players for demanding their $10,000 pledged bonuses. If there has been an agreement with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), then the administrators must fulfill it. Before making a decision, there must be a budget and discussions on how funds are raised; this must include revenue from sponsorship.

Clearly the challenge confronting the national team is beyond the performances on the pitch, but I intend looking into some administrative aspect in other discussions. My concern here is that there are indications that Keshi and his Eagles appear to be pressing the self-destruct button that may quickly tarnish their feat in South Africa.

You will never be able to obliterate their continental feat in the annals of Nigerian football, but how excellent and complementary it would be, to work even harder as a unit to prove that your achievement wasn't a flash in the pan?

Spain won the 2008 European Championships and followed it up with the World Cup triumph in South Africa two years later. They also retained their continental title last year. It has been a period of incredible dominance for them both at the national team and club levels. Seven of the players who started for Spain against Uruguay on Sunday play for Barcelona, who have ruled Europe over the last decade, while Real Madrid had three representatives.

 The fierce rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid is well known, yet coach Vicente Del Bosque has managed to keep the spirit of collectivism and focus among his players when it comes to national duty. Their work ethic and tireless sacrifice on the pitch is admirable, pressing as a unit, making movements to creating passing options and obliging the discipline to find the best man available with passes to achieve team success.

Keshi hasn’t attracted many friends in the NFF for his resignation threat and public criticism of the football body hours after his team’s AFCON success, and it is safe to assume he would be fuelling the insinuation of ‘luck’ if his team continues to play like they did against Tahiti on Monday night in Belo Horizonte.

Though injuries to the likes of Emmanuel Emenike, Victor Moses and Ogenyi Onazi hasn’t helped the team, yet playing to the gallery in a major competition rather than chasing team glory is a worrying trend for a young team. Despite their 6-1 win, Keshi should be concerned that the 10 clear-cut chances were wasted due to selfish quest for personal acclaim.

Anthony Ujah was poor in the first half and consequently replaced minutes after the break, but it was frustrating to see that the Eagles didn’t correct the basics of finding the right man in the best position towards goal. Even Ujah’s replacement, Brown Ideye ridiculously battled to get a touch on the ball which had already strolled over the goal line, just to get his name on the score sheet.

Whatever Keshi saw in Anthony Ujah which earned him a place in thie Confederations Cup team, I hope he has seen enough that the Cologne striker has blown his starting chances after lethargic performances against minnows Namibia and Tahiti.

The Eagles must put their indulgence against Tahiti behind them and concentrate on working as a unit with a quest to win for Nigeria, not playing for watching scouts. They will need to put to curb their profligacy in front of goal to do well in this competition. The lesson from Spain must be a good resource material for Keshi, which must be eloquently passed across to his players.

The legacy is not particularly about this Confederations Cup, it is about what makes a great team. Great teams don’t win once, they replicate success.

Confed Cup: Enjoy the fun Nigeria!

Football fans in Nigeria have endured a roller coaster of emotions over the last two decades, from the glorious era of the 1990s to the failings of the following decade.

Our Super Eagles won the 1994 African Cup of Nations and went on to make their debut appearance at the FIFA World Cup same year, a whirlwind season culminating in the ranking of the team as the fifth best in the world. Though they crashed out in the second round at the Mundial yet we thrilled the global audience with our wonderful group of talents.

One year later we were rubbing shoulders with the best in the 1995 Intercontinental tournament-named the King Fahd Cup back then- now renowned as the FIFA Confederations Cup. It was the only time Nigeria had previously participated in the competition, recording a 3-0 victory over Japan, followed by a draw against Argentina before losing on penalties to Mexico in the third place match.

Eagles celebrating at the African Cup of Nations in South Africa.

The Eagles are in vogue again after their 2013 AFCON success in South Africa, and the fans' excitement has been rejuvenated. What an interesting coincidence that Stephen Keshi, the current coach, and his assistants, Daniel Amokachi and Ike Shorunmu, were members of our 1995 squad to the Intercontinental tournament! Indeed the current technical director of Chelsea, Michael Emenalo was also in the squad, together with the likes of Austin Okocha, Sunday Oliseh and Peter Rufai.

Watch the highlights of the 1995 game between Nigeria and Japan here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uFUcmqGszJs

Keshi will lead his team out against Tahiti, the minnows in the group comprising of Spain and Uruguay. If there would be any discontent regarding the Eagles in these fixtures, then it would happen mainly if they failed to beat the Oceania champions. The Spaniards were overwhelmingly brilliant against Uruguay despite only winning 2-1 last night in Recife. Still Uruguay are top team and Nigeria would need extraordinary efforts to have a chance against them.

But then Tahiti are fresher, having arrived Brazil eight days ahead of their Nigerian counterparts whose participation was thrown into doubts due to protest over unpaid bonuses for success in South Africa in February. Now that a truce had been reached, it's time for the new Eagles to feel the ambience of Brazil 2014, at this Confederations Cup. A sort of dress rehearsal that should even motivate them to qualify for next year's show-piece.

Tonight's match in Belo Horizonte is the ideal opening game to settle into a tournament for a young squad like Nigeria, but the team must re-enact the sort of team ethic that earned them the continental title against the odds.

But it is important to remember that the trio of Ogenyi Onazi, Victor Moses and Emmanuel Emenike who were the linchpins of the AFCON squad are missing the Confed fiesta, a worrying situation for Keshi.

In particular, Onazi was a huge late blow, as the Lazio man was available until he limped out against Namibia midweek. His solidity allowed the duo of Mikel Obi and Sunday Mba to constantly surge forward and worry opponents. He doesn't possess the long range passing and shooting skills of Oliseh, but he is brilliant in awareness and combination play.

John Ogu was brought on to replace him against Namibia he seemed to favour attacking inclination than doing the defensive side of the game. So Keshi may have to look at Fegor Ogude for that role, as he has formed a better understanding playing with Mba more than Ogu.

The Eagles however lack a playmaker with the decisive passes-Mikel couldn't even make a single successful through ball against the Brave Warriors last Wednesday, yet he played for 90minutes. He wasn't disappointing in his overall-kept the ball nicely with slick passing and movement- he is just not the creator in the final. Sadly Eagles have none at the moment.

Mba would have shoulder this responsibility with his strength and daring runs to make things happen for the attackers who were disappointing in Windhoek, apart from the tormenting Ahmed Musa. Perhaps we would see Brown Ideye’s return to inject better precision in front of goal. He missed the Namibia with a hamstring problem but his experience will be valuable in Brazil.

The Eagles played with tremendous freedom and mobility in South Africa; they will have to play with similar courage to enjoy their stay in Brazil. After all it's the land of Samba, and it can't be wrong to savour the festivities of the home of football.

Come on Eagles! No tension. Have fun!

Brazil not glittering but fly past Japan

Two wins out of eight games in-charge and their pedigree for slow starts in tournaments had offered some reasons for anxiety for Felipe Scolari ahead the opening game of the FIFA Confederations Cup. But when you’ve got a Neymar, anything is possible, including greatness and low key performance. 

Scolari’s 2002 World Cup winning Brazil side scrap through a 2-1 victory in their opening game against Turkey and the same unimpressive lone goal margin victories against Croatia and Korea DPR in their first games of the following subsequent competitions. Indeed Cameroun who went on to reach the final of the 2003 Confederations Cup defeated the South American in the opening game of that edition.

But last night’s nerves were quickly settled by Neymar’s brilliance at National Stadium in Brasilia. Receiving a chest-cushioned ball from the Selecao’s number nine, Fred after a Marcelo cross, the new Barcelona’s 57million euros signing unleashed a cracking right-footed volley into the top corner of the Japanese net inside five minutes. It was perfect start that sent the colourful host fans into rapture. 

“I never stopped saying that Neymar is an amazing player. He may have moments when he's not at his best - which happens to everyone, but I never doubted that he's someone who can make a difference, like he did today," Scolari told FIFA.com after the game.

Japan were always going to be a tricky fixture but the Asians were shocked by the early goal and allowed Brazil to dictate proceedings very early on. Yet the South American champions still struggled for cohesion in their play, in the final third. Hulk who was chosen ahead of PSG winger, Lucas Moura was enjoying some space down the left, but his poor decisions were letting him and his teammates down.

Hulk’s incredible power and pace are great assets but more important is the end product. On one occasion when he had both Fred and Neymar to locate after muscling his way into the Japanese defence, he gave the ball away. He however powered a trademark shot into the side of the net.

But Oscar and Neymar, who made up the three behind Fred, were more composed with their play but found it difficult to break the Japan’s defensive discipline. The duo of Shinji Kagawa and Keisuke Honda were expected to spearhead the Asians’ counter attack but often times they found a stalwart in Luis Gustavo. The Bayern Munich midfielder was impressive for Brazil, supporting both Thiago Silva and David Luiz at centre back as well as prompting attack with his distribution.

Oscar was offering more purpose switching between the wide areas and complementing Neymar’s probing efforts. And when Brazil had to defend, the Chelsea man joined the duo of Gustavo and Paulinho to hassle and frustrate the guile of Kagawa and Honda.

More disappointing for Japan was their inability to exploit the weakness of Brazil’s attacking full backs, particularly Dani Alves who couldn’t also as much as Marcelo did, going forward. But the right back did locate Paulinho who swivelled and struck a low drive to double the lead three minutes into the restart.

Then after the injured Neymar was replaced by Hernanes, Oscar stepped it up and launched a great counter attack with pace, threading a delightful ball to another substitute, Jo, who slotted home the third through the legs of Eiji Kawashima in the Japan goal.

Official Man of the Match: Neymar

Onazi out, Nigeria continue sloppy feat in World Cup qualifiers

Nigeria would have qualified for the final round of the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifiers if there was a top goalscorer on the pitch Wednesday night, surviving a late surge from Namibia to secure a point. 

Not only were they disappointed for missing numerous chances to win in Windhoek, the team also look set to be without their influential midfielder, Ogenyi Onazi for the FIFA Confederations Cup following his injury last night.

The Super Eagles key rival in their group, Malawi had made it look like a realistic target after only managing a draw at home against Kenya earlier in the day, a result which meant the African Champions only needed to win in Windhoek to progress to play offs on a day Brazil marked exactly one year to the Mundial.

But it was Brave Warriors who opened scoring 12minutes from time against the run of play when Deon Hotto Kavendji pounced on a cross with the hosts’ first real chance of the game. It took a delightful free kick from central defender, Godfrey Oboabona in the 83rd minute to salvage a draw for the visitors.

Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi opted for FC Cologne striker Anthony Ujah in place of Brown Ideye who appeared to be carrying the hamstring  injury he sustained  in the friendly against Mexico in Houston. The duo of Ahmed Musa and Nnmadi Oduamadi to complete the attack, the most shuffled department in the qualifying campaign. And it turned out to be the reason the Eagles will have to wait till the last game in September to know their fate in a tricky tie with second-placed Malawi.

Spartak Moscow of Russia striker, Emmanuel Emenike was the firepower who led Nigeria’s victorious quest, emerging the golden boot winner with four goals at the African Nations Cup in South Africa in February. His absence has exposed the national team’s frailty and lack of quality in the forward line.

After suffering a muscle injury in the AFCON semi-finals against Mali, Emenike returned to action in April against Anzhi Makhachkala, only to be sidelined with knee ligament damage after coming on as a substitute in the encounter.

Sadly for the Eagles, Chelsea forward who was also crucial to the country’s continental triumph was also out injured, and it left Keshi with little options, especially after his decision to do away with big egos like Obafemi Martins and Osaze Odemwingie. Villareal’s Ike Uche has also failed to impress in the energetic style the team has shown under the current technical crew.

Albeit Nigeria stretched their unbeaten run to 18 games under Keshi with the, yet it is worrying to note that the team has only managed only two wins in five games in this  World Cup qualifiers in a relatively easy group. None of their three opponents are ranked within 100 in the FIFA log. Malawi (109), Namibia (120), Kenya (123). The Eagles are ranked 31st in the global standings.

Indeed Namibia’s head coach, Roger Palmgren had resigned barely 48hours before the encounter after citing death threats, and having lost in Windhoek to Malawi in March, the momentum was with the Eagles who had defeated Kenya in their last qualifying game.

So judging by the circumstances and quality of the opponents in the group, Keshi must be worried that his side has hardly lived up to expectation and it would be interesting how he handles subsequent challenges, beginning with FIFA Confederations Cup. Big task ahead for the Eagles

John Obi Mikel had the chance to put his side ahead after just inside 10 minutes against Namibia, after the speedy Musa was brought down from just aside the opponents’ box. But the Chelsea midfielder’s free-kick could not threaten the Warriors’ goal. It was actually surprising to see him fancy his chances, given his poor goal scoring record.

Mikel was enjoying a lot of freedom and time on the ball with the ever impressive Onazi marshalling the holding role in a fluid 4-3-3 formation. Musa, who had won the Russia title and cup double with CSKA Moscow, then provided great chances. The first with a cheeky back heel pass, that set up Ujah  who fired straight at the Namibia goalie, Virgill Vries and then another cutback pass for Oduamadi whose tame strike allowed another block. Ujah was on hand to turn it in but chose power and shot awfully wide to leave the score line barren at the break.

The Brave Warriors grew in confidence in the second half but the duo of midfield Mikel and Sunday were still finding the spaces in the final third without producing quality final balls for the three attackers. And when Oduamadi was found with a cross from six yards out, his header went shocking wide with Vries at his mercy. Both Mikel and Musa also bungled decent chances at goal, compounding Keshi’s frustration while his assistant Daniel Amokachi was hugely animated from the sidelines.

Nambia then punished Nigeria’s profligacy when Kavendji pounced on an inviting cross with Enyeama, who had rarely seen action all night, having no chance. Two crucial errors responsible for the goal; John Ogu, who had come on for the injured Onazi (most impressive player on the pitch), weirdly failed to prevent the cross despite having covered well, while Oboabona was late to intercept the goal scorer.

But Oboabona made amends by scoring the crucial equaliser with a stunning free kick five minutes later to claim a crucial point for Nigeria. Ogu then wasted a late free kick from 25 yards as both sides held on till the end.

The Eagles are up against Tahiti, Uruguay and Spain in the group B of the Confederations Cup which kicks off this weekend in Brazil. Their participation would afford them a more competitive tournament experience after conquering Africa.

Mourinho wins first battle on Chelsea return

It came very late in the game, yet one of the pivotal moments of his media conference, like scoring an injury time winner. Like Hernan Crespo’s stunner in the last minute of Chelsea’s season opener at Wigan in August 2005. You know how sweet that feels, for any fan. Jose Mourinho met what appeared to be the most sensitive query with a trademark charismatic line.

When probed about his weakness, he said: “You don't speak about weaknesses with your enemy, and my enemy will read the papers and watch television. We hide our weaknesses. Every player, manager has weaknesses. You have to try to hide them. So I'm not giving that chance for the enemy... with respect because, in sports, an enemy is not really an enemy. I know my weakness but not much, not many.”

That was a pointer to his unrepentant swagger and ridiculous confidence, a clear message of readiness, and the commencement of the plot to conquer his rivals.  Albeit the Portuguese appeared to be calmer in poise but nothing has really changed in his personality. He kept the media guessing most of the times and made rivals felt ‘was that all about the noise of his press conference?’ 250 journalists were present, yet he ensured he didn't give too much away while still delivering his words articulately.

Then take for instance an attempt to drag him early into the fate of John Terry who had troubled times under the Blues interim manager, Rafa Benitez in the just ended season, Jose masterfully offered a double-header reply to quench the media thirst, instantly.

He said: “For me, not one word about Benitez's decisions, either on John or another player. What I can say is about the future, and the future is to meet John in the first week of July, try to get the best out of him. I know what he can give. I try to get the best, let's try to make him again a very important player that he couldn't be last season. But Benitez's decisions are Benitez's decisions.’

With that, he killed the potential of throwing up headlines about Benitez, and in the same breathe warned Terry and other senior players, with whom he had worked during his first stint, that the ‘untouchable era’ is over, adding, “all my decisions are based on meritocracy.”

Mourinho had started the show with a new sobriquet, announcing: "I think I'm the happy one" in response to a question about whether he still considered himself The Special One. Surely he threw a stone to kill two birds there: pouring cold water to the so-called 'unsuccessful' adventure at Real Madrid and at the same time reminding his critics his unhappiness in Spain has vanished with his return to Chelsea.”

In a sublime tone accompanied by a charming smile that had often been missing during his tumultuous moments at the Bernabeu, Mourinho insists, “I’m humble. Sometimes it looks like I'm not, but I am.”

 In response to suggestions he's a calmer figure than the man who appeared at his media debut for Chelsea in 2004, he suggested his cocky approach was needed at the time to remind the local media in England that he was no rookie in the game.

“When I arrived here in 2004 you pushed me a lot in that first press conference to have a strong approach, and in this moment the situation is different. You know me. You know my history in the British game, and the European game, so I don't think I need that approach.”

The former Inter Milan boss still had time to deliver a stinger to Barcelona following claims by midfielder Andreas Iniesta that he had ‘damaged’ the game in Spain. “‘I damaged Spanish football by being the manager that broke Barcelona dominance. They were dominant, and dominant, and dominant, and it looked like dominance without an end. Real Madrid won a cup final against Barcelona, Real Madrid won the Super Cup against Barcelona, Real Madrid won in Barcelona, and Real Madrid won the championship, which is the historic championship of 100 points and 121 goals. I hurt them, I hurt them.”

Mourinho also navigated the question regarding the fate of Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne-both of were away on loan deals last season with grace. ‘I think it's fair that the players are the first ones to know about their future, and to know about their future by their manager, by their club, and not by the media. But, as you are Belgian and I don't want you to go home without a little answer, they are the type of players Chelsea have invested a lot into in the past, and it's my work to extract the best from those investments. Both of them are ready to come and be ready for my squad.’

The mellowness of a tiger is no indication of cowardice, says an African proverb. Don’t ever mistake Jose’s calmness for a change of personality in his quest to succeed again with Chelsea. The battle started at Monday’s conference and his message is lucid enough that he is up for the fight, albeit a greater challenge, this time around.

Yes he seems more mature now, but he won’t change. Mourinho is back!