Despite having lost their first two games there is the slimmest of chances that the Super Eagles will progress to the knockout phase of a World Cup for the first time since 1998, although they are praying for a commanding performance from Argentina in the other group match. “We are counting on Lionel Messi to deliver for us,” said their goalkeeper, Vincent Eneyeama. Nevertheless even if Diego Maradona’s side crush the Greeks, Nigeria will still have to perform and with Sani Kaita having been handed death threats following his sending off that turned the Greece game, morale in the camp is not exactly high.

The South Koreans are nothing if not prepared. They know that they are likely to face a physcial working-over from a frankly desperate Nigeria and that their best chances are pressing down Nigeria’s vulnerable flanks. A draw might be enough but midfielder, Kim Jung-woo, said they could not rely on it. “The key to this game will be not to concede early on,” he said. “We will have to be very organised from start to finish.”

Nigeria have never beaten an Asian team in a World Cup and now would be a good time to start. Morale in the camp seems low and although the South Koreans lost 4-1 to Argentina, they look in better shape. This has been a dreadful tournament for African nations and Nigeria look a good bet to follow Cameroon out. Verdict: Draw.