Balogun on the cusp of return

The German born Coach of the Super Eagles, Gernot Rohr, will be starting his one-week vacation on a good note. He can start his holiday knowing that he will be probably have the services of Leon Balogun when Nigeria face-off with Algeria on November 12 in Uyo.
Balogun, who earned the man of the match award when Nigeria beat Tanzania in Uyo, has become arguably one of the more consistent players for the Super Eagles. The half German, who made his international debut for Nigeria in 2014 against Mexico, pulled out of Nigeria’s opening Russia 2018 World Cup Group B qualifier against Zambia at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium in Ndola, Zambia due to a hamstring injury.
He obtained the injury while playing during the O-Fives’ 3-2 defeat to Bayer Leverkusen at home on September 24. In his absence, Mainz, who are placed 11th in the table, held Wolfsburg to a goalless draw at the Volkswagen Arena on October 2.

As we know, Kenneth Omeruo, who filled in for Balogun as centre back, didn’t have the best of games and this will be a relief to both coach and fans of the Super Eagles ahead of their cracker with Algeria. Not only are the North Africans ranked number 1 in Africa, but their attack features the dual prong of Lecister City’s Riyad Mahrez and Islam Slimani, and they are bound to be a test to any defence.
Mainz 05's official website confirmed on Thursday that Balogun could be selected by manager Martin Schmidt alongside Fabian Frei for Sunday’s home encounter with Darmstadt 98, who are placed 14th on the table.