2018 World Cup: 5 underdogs who can make a deep run in the tournament

#2 Nigeria

The best African team today?

Nigeria may be a part of the proverbial group of death, with teams like Argentina, Croatia and Iceland also in the mix. However, this doesn't mean that the Super Eagles should be written off. Nigeria may not have stars of yesteryear to help them, but they have a young crop of hungry players. Under captain John Obi Mikel, players like Kelechi Iheanacho, Ahmed Musa and Alex Iwobi will be hungry to prove something to the world. Along with Wilfried Ndidi, Troost-Ekong etc. Nigeria may be the surprise package of this year.

Talent may be leaning towards the attacking side for Nigeria, but stability in the midfield and a relatively experienced defense may just form the winning combo. Players like Ndidi and Mikel will anchor the midfield, while Ekong can be led by the experienced Elderson Echiéjilé. Even though they have functional players across the team, their stars are up front. Iheanacho may have misfired for Leicester City last season but he has 8 goals in 18 appearances for Nigeria. With Moses and Iwobi feeding him balls, he could be a very deadly force up front.

I honestly think that Nigeria may just get out of their group and make a deep run. If they do get out of their group, they will most likely face France, Peru or Denmark.