Rohr Hails Ekong, Balogun For Taming Europe's Top Marksman In WCQ Lewandowski

Gernor Rohr had nothing but praise for central defensive partners William Troost-Ekong and Leon Balogun after they stopped Bayern Munich goal machine Robert Lewandowski from scoring in Nigeria's 1-0 win over Poland in an international friendly on Friday night.

The German coach, who has close ties to Bayern Munich, shared one of the worst kept secrets ahead of the summer transfer window, that the Polish captain might be on his way to European champions Real Madrid.

Lewandowski was Europe's top scorer in the 2018 World Cup qualifiers with 16 goals but had a largely ineffective display against Balogun and Ekong, apart from the eighth minute when his shot came off the post.

''I am pleased with how our defenders dealt with Lewandowski,'' Rohr said post-match.

''But if he finishes the season with Bayern and finally signs a contract with Real, he will definitely be more involved in the national team and Poland will be even more dangerous.''

Whilst William Troost-Ekong went the distance against the Polish team, Balogun was replaced by Kenneth Omeruo with 16 minutes left on the clock, after Lewandowski had left the pitch.

Igho Kingsley