Craven Cottage Monday, November 18th, 2013 k/o 19:45   International Attendance: 15,000       Italy 2-2 Nigeria
2013 /14

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Shola Ameobi scored one goal and set up another as Nigeria held Italy to a surprise 2-2 draw on Monday. Stephen Keshi''s men headed into the game having clinched their place at next year''s World Cup with a play-off win over Ethiopia on Saturday. And the African nation carried that momentum into the friendly clash at Craven Cottage, producing a determined performance against the four-time World Cup winners. Italy were on top for much of the encounter and took the lead early on thanks to Giuseppe Rossi. Nigeria launched a superb fightback, though, with Ameobi setting up Bright Dike for the equaliser before giving his side the advantage with a fine improvised volley. Cesare Prandelli''s side did level through Emanuele Giaccherini, but there were to be no further goals despite numerous opportunities for both teams.