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Joseph Yobo reveals Nigeria’s plan to stop Ghana

Joseph Yobo, Nigeria
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The Super Eagles icon lifted the lid on the team’s plan to silence Ghana ahead of tonight’s showdown.

Joseph Yobo has revealed Nigeria’s plan to prevent Ghana from getting even ‘a sniff at goal’ in the second leg of their 2022 World Cup qualification play-off tie.

The West African rivals lock horns for the second ‘Jollof derby’ in as many weeks on Tuesday. They drew 0-0 in Kumasi last time out, making this second leg a make-or-break tie.

For Ghana, victory or a score draw will seal a ticket to Qatar for the upcoming World Cup. Keeping the Black Stars’ frontline quiet, therefore, will be a top priority for Nigeria.

How can Nigeria silence Ghana?

In an interview with Goal, Yobo spilled the beans on Nigeria’s plan of action.

“We have to keep our defensive organization in structure and not give them a sniff at goal which we did okay in Kumasi – we can also improve on that,” said the Super Eagles assistant coach.

“Talking about away goals, if they try to attack us, I think our players will also try to find space behind them, so it works both ways.

“If they are coming to attack, I will take that because we have very quick and talented players who can take advantage of a team that is coming out of the blocks to attack.”

Yobo, who starred in the Super Eagles and Everton defense during his playing career, added: “Nigeria is playing at home and we know what it takes.

“We are experienced at this stage and we will try to do everything possible to win this game. They are counting on away goals or a scored draw, but we are going out to win. However, it’s never going to be easy because the Ghanaians are a very good side.”

How do the bookies view it?

With home advantage on their side, on top of a better run of form compared to Ghana, Nigeria are favorites to win the second leg and qualify for the 2022 World Cup.

At the time of writing, Bet365 has priced a win for the three-time African champions at 1.85. This suggests they have a 54% chance of victory, while Ghana – who are priced at 5.00 – got a 20% of winning in comparison.

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