The significant difference between the two nations was “what they did that summer”. The match took place after USA 1994, where England was notably absent. But Nigeria was well and truly present. The then-reigning ACON champions put on a dazzling performance in the US, finishing top of their World Cup group ahead of Bulgaria and Argentina on goal difference. Their run ended in the Round of 16, after an extra-time defeat to Italy. But things could have gone completely different as the Super Eagles were leading 1-0 until Baggio’s 89th-minute equaliser.
On paper, Nigeria had the better team but it was England who won the match 1-0 and it could have been a larger scoreline had they taken their chances.
Stream the highlights below and check out the teamsheets underneath the video.
Teamsheets for England vs. Nigeria
England
Manager: Terry Venables
Starting XI
- Tim Flowers
- Rob Jones
- Steve Howey
- Neil Ruddock
- Graeme Le Saux
- Rob Lee
- David Platt (Captain)
- Dennis Wise
- John Barnes
- Peter Beardsley
- Alan Shearer
Bench
- David Seaman
- Stuart Pearce
- Steve McManaman
- Matt Le Tissier
- Teddy Sheringham
Nigeria
Manager: Shuaibu Amodu
Starting XI
- Peter Rufai (captain)
- Augustine Eguavoen
- Benedict Iroha
- Uchenna Okafor
- Uche Okechukwu
- Mutiu Adepoju
- Emmanuel Amunike
- Jay Jay Okocha
- Finidi George
- Daniel Amokachi
- Rachidi Yekini
Bench
- Ike Shorunmu
- Wilson Oruma
- Efan Ekoku
- Victor Ikpeba
- Nwankwo Kanu
- Nduka Ugbade