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Samson Siasia's Dream Team IV hit a speed bump on their way to the Intercontinental Cup title, as they were held to a surprised 1-1 draw by hosts, Malaysia, on Monday.
Samson Siasia's Dream Team IV hit a speed bump on their way to the Intercontinental Cup title, as they were held to a surprised 1-1 draw by hosts, Malaysia, on Monday.
Bernard Okorowanta scored his second goal of the tournament after 10 minutes, getting on the end of John Owoeri's cross to tuck home from close range.
But the Nigerians failed to close out the game, missing a succession of chances and were made to pay for their sins when Safee Sali fired home an equaliser with barely nine minutes of play left.
Nigeria remain top of the Group A table on goal difference in spite of the result, with Republic of Ireland and Iraq playing out a goalless draw in the other group game.
Nigeria Coach Siasia was left fuming.
"We squandered a lot of chances in the first half, but I give credit to Malaysia for giving us a tough fight. They gave us a lot of problems in the second half and really deserved the equaliser.
"I wish to congratulate Malaysia for their performance. I thought it was their best in this series.
"I reckon it was a good lesson for my boys. Although we dominated in parts, my players must learn to finish all their good moves," Siasia said.
Dream Team IV have all but qualified, and now only need a draw against Iraq to guarantee their place in the semi-finals of the tournament, although even a 1-0 loss could still put them through on goals difference.