Lianne Sanderson: It’s going to be very difficult for England against Nigeria

Ahead of England’s round of 16 clash against Nigeria, bettingexpert had the pleasure of catching up with former England footballer and broadcaster Lianne Sanderson. Sanderson had a stellar career playing for the likes of Arsenal, Chelsea, Espanyol and Juventus. Sanderson was part of England’s World Cup squad in 2007 and 2015, earning a third-place medal in the latter.

She broke down why Nigeria will prove to be tough opposition for England when the sides meet on Monday.

Following on from England’s big win against China, England are now looking forward to facing Nigeria in the round of 16. The win against China was England’s most convincing of the tournament so far and has left many wondering if England can replicate their Euro Championships run.

In this article:

• England should be cautious
• Rubbishing stereotypes
• Two of England’s potential problems
• Fearless Nigeria; a warning

Sanderson urges caution despite emphatic China win

Have England stamped their credentials as the tournament favourites? Sanderson isn’t getting too excited by England’s performance against China. She argues China made it easy for England in the first half, and it could have been a different game had they turned up in the first half of the game.

“I think China were really poor. Especially in the first half. If they had played the first half the way they played the second half, they might have had half a chance because when it went to 3-1, it looked like the momentum was with them.”

“They weren’t pressing, chasing down.”

“This Nigeria team will be completely different. They’ve been so good during this tournament, and a lot of people were quick to describe the African nations as ‘quick and strong’, but no. Technically they are very good, and they are also very organised.”

Sanderson calls out stereotypes about African footballers

As well as calling out some of the incorrect stereotypes made about African players by hailing their technical ability and organisation, Sanderson also praises the job that coach Randy Waldrun has done with a Nigerian side currently ranked 40th in the world.

“Their coach Randy Waldrum coached in America for a number of years at Houston Dash, and he was at Trinidad and Tobago as well.”

“He’s done a fantastic job with this team because they’re ranked 40th in the world, and the way we do rankings needs to be completely revamped going forward. A lot of these nations are doing far better than people imagined.”

“England has always struggled against African nations. We don’t seem to be able to break them down – Caribbean nations also. We don’t play against them very often, if at all. Even in friendlies.”

I think it’s going to be very difficult for England. An early goal would be very helpful.”

Ayinde and Uchebi highlighted as problem’s England must solve

Whilst Sanderson is wary of the threat posed by the likes of forward Asisat Oshoala, she has been particularly impressed with Nigeria’s two holding midfielders in Halimatu Ayinde and Christy Ucheibe, as players England must watch out for in Monday’s clash.

“I think Nigeria’s midfield two in Ayinde and Uchebi. They’re really good and composed on the ball.”

“They cause more problems than people realise because they’re the main orchestrators in the midfield.”

“It’s easy to look at the forwards. Ashaola came into the game, so it will be interesting to see who starts up front because Waldun has mixed and matched it.”

“Ashaola came into the game and scored the game-winner against Australia.”

Nigeria are fearless warns Sanderson

England will be hoping to get off to a good start in what will be an intriguing tactical battle. Nigeria have lined up in an organised 4-2-3-1 formation. In contrast, England decided to alter their formation and lineup in their match against China, opting for a dynamic 3-5-2 setup. This adjustment gave Lauren James a free role.

“They’ve beaten nations who are very good. They’re fearless.”

“I’m a big fan of Alozie as well. I’ve seen her a lot in the WSL in America. They have a lot of pace down the right-hand side and can cause a lot of problems. That’s where Rachel Daly, at times, might end up getting pinned back.”

“If Nigeria starts on the front foot, Daly won’t be able to get forward.”

“Nigeria has been organised, and he’s implemented Waldrun’s messages.”

RESPONSIBLE GAMBLING

At bettingexpert, we always take a responsible approach to gambling. We’ll never bet more than we can afford or chase losses. For more advice, head to our Responsible Gambling hub.