Lagos - Paul Hamilton, a former coach of the Super Falcons, on Wednesday warned Coach Stephen Keshi of the Super Eagles not allow distraction truncate his success so far in the senior national team.
Hamilton, commenting on the Sept. 7 World Cup qualifier against Malawi in Calabar, said on telephone that Keshi now needed more concentration than ever.
``Keshi has been successful so far in his quest to qualify Nigeria for the World Cup and so should not allow for distraction at this crucial hour.
``By now, Keshi should have overcome the issue raised by Malawi citing insecurity in Calabar and remain focused because the match will decide Nigeria's chances for the last round of the qualifier.
``He should try and focus on winning this match, that’s my opinion. He has a task at hand which is winning the match against Malawi in Calabar.
``It’s purely mind games to distract him from concentrating on the job at hand; things have been working well for him so why stop now because of this glitch.
``The Malawians knew that Keshi has not lost at that venue before and so was trying every means to detract Keshi from concentrating,’’ he said.
On the acceptance of 23 players submitted by Keshi by the Technical and Development Committee of the Nigeria Football Association, Hamilton said it was a sign of more success for the coach.
``I’m happy the list was accepted by the NFA, Keshi knows the team and players best so he is in the best position to pick those that can go together.
``He has been building them for a while and they have a pattern and I think if he goes with that, the Eagles will do good,’’ Hamilton said.
He then called on Nigerians to give their utmost support to the Eagles on Sept. 7 to ensure final round qualification.
Nigeria is topping Group F with nine points needed a draw in the match to qualify for the last round of the qualifier.
The Flames of Malawi, however, needed to win the match to qualify for the final elimination round.
The Flames are expected to arrive in Nigeria via Accra on Sept. 5. (NAN)
Showing posts with label Super Eagles. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Super Eagles. Show all posts
Tuesday, 3 September 2013
Sunday, 28 July 2013
We were jittery, Keshi admits
Super Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi has described Nigeria’s 2-0 loss to the Elephants of Cote D’ Ivoire in the second leg of the final round of the CHAN qualifier as a good experience for the national team.
“We thank God we qualified at the end of the day but my boys did not pick up till the second half and I must say to you that I am happy and this is a great experience for a young side like the home based side”.
The former Stade D Abidjan libero admitted that his players were jittery at the start of the match which led to them conceding two quick goals in the first half but they woke up and gave a good account of themselves in the second.
[caption id="attachment_406337" align="alignright" width="302"]
RESILIENCE: Super Eagles Oladapo Olufemi (C) vies for the ball with Ivory Coast’s players during the 2014 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifying match on July 27, 2013 at the Robert-Champroux Stadium in Abidjan. Ivory Coast defeated Nigeria 2 - 0. Nigeria qualify on 4-3 aggregate. PHOTO AFP[/caption]
“If you say it was a game of two halves I may tend to agree with you because we started poorly largely due to inexperience and then when we came into the game they struggled against us. But that is football, we are just grateful to God, the NFF and Nigerians that we made it for the first time to the CHAN tournament”.
Ivorian Coach, Saraka Norbert, who also spoke at the post match conference admitted that the Nigerian side were slightly more experienced than his side, even as he refused to blame the two red cards the team received in the first leg in Kaduna for his side’s ouster.
“Nigeria is a great country economically, socially and even in football and we must admit that when we get to their heights in the near future, Ivorian football will be great again”, he said.
“We thank God we qualified at the end of the day but my boys did not pick up till the second half and I must say to you that I am happy and this is a great experience for a young side like the home based side”.
The former Stade D Abidjan libero admitted that his players were jittery at the start of the match which led to them conceding two quick goals in the first half but they woke up and gave a good account of themselves in the second.
[caption id="attachment_406337" align="alignright" width="302"]
RESILIENCE: Super Eagles Oladapo Olufemi (C) vies for the ball with Ivory Coast’s players during the 2014 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifying match on July 27, 2013 at the Robert-Champroux Stadium in Abidjan. Ivory Coast defeated Nigeria 2 - 0. Nigeria qualify on 4-3 aggregate. PHOTO AFP[/caption]“If you say it was a game of two halves I may tend to agree with you because we started poorly largely due to inexperience and then when we came into the game they struggled against us. But that is football, we are just grateful to God, the NFF and Nigerians that we made it for the first time to the CHAN tournament”.
Ivorian Coach, Saraka Norbert, who also spoke at the post match conference admitted that the Nigerian side were slightly more experienced than his side, even as he refused to blame the two red cards the team received in the first leg in Kaduna for his side’s ouster.
“Nigeria is a great country economically, socially and even in football and we must admit that when we get to their heights in the near future, Ivorian football will be great again”, he said.
Friday, 26 July 2013
CHAN battle: Be wary of Elephants - Ekpo warns Eagles
BY JACOB AJOM
Former Super Eagles midfielder, Friday Ekpo has warned the Super Eagles not to be carried away by the 4-1 scoreline recorded over the Elephants of Ivory Coast from the first leg of the African Nations Championship qualifier in Kaduna.
Speaking in Lagos during the week, Ekpo warned, “if the Eagles think the first leg result is comfortable, then they will be making a grave mistake. They must work hard to restrain the Ivorians because in football, it is not over yet, until it is over.”
He warned the Eagles against complacency, saying, “if we could score 4-1 here against them, what stops them from scoring three in the second leg?” He advised the players to be conscious of this as they take on their hosts in Abidjan this weekend.
Ekpo spared a moment to praise the exploits of the home based Eagles, especially, those who featured for Nigeria in the FIFA Confederations Cup, pointing out that the Stephen Keshi team deserved some praise. “When I hear people talk about home-based players being inexperienced, it beats me hollow.
Brazil won the Confederations Cup with the bulk of their team being home-based. Why can’t we encourage our boys to become stars?”
Former Super Eagles midfielder, Friday Ekpo has warned the Super Eagles not to be carried away by the 4-1 scoreline recorded over the Elephants of Ivory Coast from the first leg of the African Nations Championship qualifier in Kaduna.
Speaking in Lagos during the week, Ekpo warned, “if the Eagles think the first leg result is comfortable, then they will be making a grave mistake. They must work hard to restrain the Ivorians because in football, it is not over yet, until it is over.”
He warned the Eagles against complacency, saying, “if we could score 4-1 here against them, what stops them from scoring three in the second leg?” He advised the players to be conscious of this as they take on their hosts in Abidjan this weekend.
Ekpo spared a moment to praise the exploits of the home based Eagles, especially, those who featured for Nigeria in the FIFA Confederations Cup, pointing out that the Stephen Keshi team deserved some praise. “When I hear people talk about home-based players being inexperienced, it beats me hollow.
Brazil won the Confederations Cup with the bulk of their team being home-based. Why can’t we encourage our boys to become stars?”
Thursday, 25 July 2013
Eagles seek elusive CHAN ticket
By John EGBOKHAN
Tomorrow in Abidjan, the Super Eagles home-based team will attempt to break the jinx that has prevented Nigeria from qualifying for the last two editions of the African Nations Championship (CHAN), when they confront Cote d’ Ivoire in a second leg final round match at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium.
Since the competition, meant for players playing their professional football in Africa, made its debut in 2009, Nigeria, which boast of some of the best talents on the continent, are yet to make the grades, making mockery of the often-touted developmental strides in the local league.
The Democratic Republic of Congo won the maiden edition, courtesy of a 2-0 defeat of the Black Stars of Ghana in Abidjan. In the 2011 edition hosted by Sudan, it was Tunisia’s turn to taste the sweet taste of victory, as they ran away with a 3-0 spanking of the Palancas Negras of Angola in Merreikh.
Remarkably and sadly too, in those two editions, Nigeria, the most populated country in sub-Sahara Africa, were not there. But today, the Eagles are just a step away from reaching their first CHAN final, set to hold next January in South Africa, the same country, where the Super Eagles won their third Africa Cup of Nations crown in February, after a 19-year wait.
Leading the Eagles quest for a first CHAN ticket is Coach Stephen Keshi, who was at the helm of affairs when Eagles soared to their third AFCON title in Johannesburg.
Keshi, who happens to the first Nigerian to win the Nations Cup crown as a player and coach, takes the Eagles into tomorrow’s duel with the Elephants, with a 4-1 advantage from the first leg.
Despite masterminding the defeat of the Ivorians at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna, Keshi is keeping a calm head as he attempts to see out the Elephants over two legs.
Speaking before their trip to Abidjan, Keshi expressed confidence in his charges’ ability to hold their own against the Ivorians, who he admits would be backed by a partisan crowd at their National Stadium.
“We have the home work. All that is left to do is the hard job on the pitch, which I am confident would turn out in our favour. But our hosts are going to enjoy a lot of support from their home fans”, said Keshi, who is not unfamiliar with life in Abidjan, having started his professional career outside Nigeria from the Ivorian league, when he left New Nigerian Bank to join Stade d’Abidjan in 1985, before moving to Africa Sports, a year later, before going abroad to play for Lokeren of Belgium in the 1876-1987 season.
He will be counting on the experience of Nations Cup winners, Sunday Mba, Godfrey Oboabona and Chigozie Agim, with support from Solomon Kwambe, Benjamin Francis and Azubuike Egwuekwe.
“We have a good squad, who are hungry to break this jinx of not being able to qualify for the CHAN tournament. It is not going to be easy but we are prepared for whatever the Ivorians would bring”, said Keshi.
Tomorrow in Abidjan, the Super Eagles home-based team will attempt to break the jinx that has prevented Nigeria from qualifying for the last two editions of the African Nations Championship (CHAN), when they confront Cote d’ Ivoire in a second leg final round match at the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium.
Since the competition, meant for players playing their professional football in Africa, made its debut in 2009, Nigeria, which boast of some of the best talents on the continent, are yet to make the grades, making mockery of the often-touted developmental strides in the local league.
The Democratic Republic of Congo won the maiden edition, courtesy of a 2-0 defeat of the Black Stars of Ghana in Abidjan. In the 2011 edition hosted by Sudan, it was Tunisia’s turn to taste the sweet taste of victory, as they ran away with a 3-0 spanking of the Palancas Negras of Angola in Merreikh.
Remarkably and sadly too, in those two editions, Nigeria, the most populated country in sub-Sahara Africa, were not there. But today, the Eagles are just a step away from reaching their first CHAN final, set to hold next January in South Africa, the same country, where the Super Eagles won their third Africa Cup of Nations crown in February, after a 19-year wait.
Leading the Eagles quest for a first CHAN ticket is Coach Stephen Keshi, who was at the helm of affairs when Eagles soared to their third AFCON title in Johannesburg.
Keshi, who happens to the first Nigerian to win the Nations Cup crown as a player and coach, takes the Eagles into tomorrow’s duel with the Elephants, with a 4-1 advantage from the first leg.
Despite masterminding the defeat of the Ivorians at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna, Keshi is keeping a calm head as he attempts to see out the Elephants over two legs.
Speaking before their trip to Abidjan, Keshi expressed confidence in his charges’ ability to hold their own against the Ivorians, who he admits would be backed by a partisan crowd at their National Stadium.
“We have the home work. All that is left to do is the hard job on the pitch, which I am confident would turn out in our favour. But our hosts are going to enjoy a lot of support from their home fans”, said Keshi, who is not unfamiliar with life in Abidjan, having started his professional career outside Nigeria from the Ivorian league, when he left New Nigerian Bank to join Stade d’Abidjan in 1985, before moving to Africa Sports, a year later, before going abroad to play for Lokeren of Belgium in the 1876-1987 season.
He will be counting on the experience of Nations Cup winners, Sunday Mba, Godfrey Oboabona and Chigozie Agim, with support from Solomon Kwambe, Benjamin Francis and Azubuike Egwuekwe.
“We have a good squad, who are hungry to break this jinx of not being able to qualify for the CHAN tournament. It is not going to be easy but we are prepared for whatever the Ivorians would bring”, said Keshi.
Nigeria to end CHAN misery
JOHANNESBURG (AFP) - Nigeria are set to end five years of African Nations Championship (CHAN) failure by reaching the finals for the first time this weekend.
Ousted by Ghana and minnows Niger in previous qualifying competitions, the 'Super Eagles' defend a 4-1 lead away to Ivory Coast Saturday.
[caption id="attachment_399805" align="alignnone" width="412"]
Mikel celebrates his goal with teammates[/caption]
While coach Stephen Keshi preaches caution, it would be the biggest shock of the six-year Championship for home-based stars if they fail to make the 2014 finals in South Africa.
"We cannot afford to take our feet off the pedal because we won the first match," said the coach who led the full senior team to the Africa Cup of Nations title in Soweto last February.
"The Ivorians are a very good side and we must prepare thoroughly for the second leg or face the prospect of losing out on Nations Championship qualification again."
While the first-leg score three weeks ago suggests a lop-sided game, the Ivorians had two players red carded when trailing 3-1 in Kaduna.
Keshi admitted to Nigerian reporters that he was concerned that his team could score only once when they had a two-man numerical advantage.
The policy of giving local stars exposure at the highest level -- eight were among the Confederations Cup squad in Brazil during June -- gives Nigeria a powerful CHAN line-up.
Midfielder Sunday Mba, the Cup of Nations final match-winner against Burkina Faso, bagged a brace against the Ivorians with Gambo Mohammed and Ifeanyi Benjamin also on target.
Goalkeeper Chigozie Agbim, defenders Godfrey Oboabona, Azubike Egwuekwe and Solomon Kwambe and midfielder Emeka Eze are others from the Confederations Cup in the CHAN squad.
An Ivory Coast senior squad heavily reliant on foreign-based talent means only goalkeeper Badra Ali Sangare from the Cup of Nations squad is available for the CHAN qualifier.
Ethiopia are another country hoping to make the Nations Championship finals for the first time, although they are less favourably placed than Nigeria having defeated Rwanda only 1-0 in Addis Ababa.
Sewnet Bishaw, who took the Cup of Nations team to the finals last January after a 31-year absence, is confident of completing the task in Kigali.
"I promise that we will beat Rwanda in their backyard -- I do not foresee any serious problems having watched them in the first encounter," he boasted.
Only three of the 23-strong Cup of Nations squad are based abroad, leaving Bishaw with a wealth of experience to call on, including midfield dribbler Shimelis Bekele.
A 1-0 victory in Tanzania through a goal from defender Denis Iguma has placed Uganda in pole position to reach a second consecutive Nations Championship tournament.
But the 'Cranes' have often fallen at the final hurdle in various qualifying tournaments and Serb coach Milutin 'Micho' Sredojevic remains wary of his east African neighbours.
"We got only the passports for South Africa by winning the first leg -- now we need to collect the visas by winning the return match in Kampala," he said.
Uganda will lack both first-leg strikers with Tony Odour sidelined by a pulled muscle and Patrick Edema in Portugal for trials with a third-tier club.
There are seven second-leg fixtures with final places up for grabs and Mali are well placed having beaten Guinea 3-1 at home, as are Sudan after forcing a 1-1 draw in Burundi.
But Burkina Faso and 2009 champions Democratic Republic of Congo face tough tasks against Niger and Congo Brazzaville respectively having built just one-goal home leads.
There are also four first-leg fixtures with Cameroon belatedly hosting Gabon after the lifting this week of a FIFA ban on the country for state interference.
Southern region fixtures between Botswana and Zambia, Mozambique and Namibia and Mauritius and Zimbabwe complete the 11-match schedule.
Ousted by Ghana and minnows Niger in previous qualifying competitions, the 'Super Eagles' defend a 4-1 lead away to Ivory Coast Saturday.
[caption id="attachment_399805" align="alignnone" width="412"]
Mikel celebrates his goal with teammates[/caption]While coach Stephen Keshi preaches caution, it would be the biggest shock of the six-year Championship for home-based stars if they fail to make the 2014 finals in South Africa.
"We cannot afford to take our feet off the pedal because we won the first match," said the coach who led the full senior team to the Africa Cup of Nations title in Soweto last February.
"The Ivorians are a very good side and we must prepare thoroughly for the second leg or face the prospect of losing out on Nations Championship qualification again."
While the first-leg score three weeks ago suggests a lop-sided game, the Ivorians had two players red carded when trailing 3-1 in Kaduna.
Keshi admitted to Nigerian reporters that he was concerned that his team could score only once when they had a two-man numerical advantage.
The policy of giving local stars exposure at the highest level -- eight were among the Confederations Cup squad in Brazil during June -- gives Nigeria a powerful CHAN line-up.
Midfielder Sunday Mba, the Cup of Nations final match-winner against Burkina Faso, bagged a brace against the Ivorians with Gambo Mohammed and Ifeanyi Benjamin also on target.
Goalkeeper Chigozie Agbim, defenders Godfrey Oboabona, Azubike Egwuekwe and Solomon Kwambe and midfielder Emeka Eze are others from the Confederations Cup in the CHAN squad.
An Ivory Coast senior squad heavily reliant on foreign-based talent means only goalkeeper Badra Ali Sangare from the Cup of Nations squad is available for the CHAN qualifier.
Ethiopia are another country hoping to make the Nations Championship finals for the first time, although they are less favourably placed than Nigeria having defeated Rwanda only 1-0 in Addis Ababa.
Sewnet Bishaw, who took the Cup of Nations team to the finals last January after a 31-year absence, is confident of completing the task in Kigali.
"I promise that we will beat Rwanda in their backyard -- I do not foresee any serious problems having watched them in the first encounter," he boasted.
Only three of the 23-strong Cup of Nations squad are based abroad, leaving Bishaw with a wealth of experience to call on, including midfield dribbler Shimelis Bekele.
A 1-0 victory in Tanzania through a goal from defender Denis Iguma has placed Uganda in pole position to reach a second consecutive Nations Championship tournament.
But the 'Cranes' have often fallen at the final hurdle in various qualifying tournaments and Serb coach Milutin 'Micho' Sredojevic remains wary of his east African neighbours.
"We got only the passports for South Africa by winning the first leg -- now we need to collect the visas by winning the return match in Kampala," he said.
Uganda will lack both first-leg strikers with Tony Odour sidelined by a pulled muscle and Patrick Edema in Portugal for trials with a third-tier club.
There are seven second-leg fixtures with final places up for grabs and Mali are well placed having beaten Guinea 3-1 at home, as are Sudan after forcing a 1-1 draw in Burundi.
But Burkina Faso and 2009 champions Democratic Republic of Congo face tough tasks against Niger and Congo Brazzaville respectively having built just one-goal home leads.
There are also four first-leg fixtures with Cameroon belatedly hosting Gabon after the lifting this week of a FIFA ban on the country for state interference.
Southern region fixtures between Botswana and Zambia, Mozambique and Namibia and Mauritius and Zimbabwe complete the 11-match schedule.
Wednesday, 24 July 2013
Eagles depart for Abidjan
BY JACOB AJOM
The senior national team, the Super Eagles will jet out this morning to Ivory Coast economic and commercial city of Abidjan to keep a date with the Ivory Coast national team, the Elephants in the reverse leg of the African Nations Championship coming up this weekend.
The Nigerians are carrying a 4-1 goal advantage from the first leg played in Kaduna, July 6.
Coach Stephen Keshi is taking a strong squad to the West African nation but will miss the services of lethal striker, Gambo Mohammed of Kano Pillars who could not travel due to injury. Gambo opened scoring in the first leg. Another injured striker, Haruna Babalo of El Kanemi Warriors was also dropped.
[caption id="attachment_402461" align="alignnone" width="412"]
FIRING POWER... Super Eagles attacking midfielder, Sunday Mba puts Ivorian players in the firing range as he scored a brace in yesterday’s CAF African Nations Championship qualifier at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium Kaduna.[/caption]
Keshi would however, bank on the versatility of Afcon 2013 hero, Sunday Mba, striker Ezekiel Mbah whose commendable performance in the first leg helped the Eagles record a convincing win over the Ivorians and other players like Ifeanyi Ede who capped his debut with Eagles fourth goal in Kaduna. Flying Eagles and Rangers of Enugu striker, Alhaji Gero also made the trip to Abidjan, so, the Nigeria coach will not lack strikers.
In the defence the dependable figures like Godfrey Oboabona, Azubuike Egwuekwe, Solomon Kwambe, Chibuzor Okonkwo and Benjamin Francis all made the trip. Captain Chigozie Agbim will man the post.
The match comes up on Saturday in Abidjan.
The senior national team, the Super Eagles will jet out this morning to Ivory Coast economic and commercial city of Abidjan to keep a date with the Ivory Coast national team, the Elephants in the reverse leg of the African Nations Championship coming up this weekend.
The Nigerians are carrying a 4-1 goal advantage from the first leg played in Kaduna, July 6.
Coach Stephen Keshi is taking a strong squad to the West African nation but will miss the services of lethal striker, Gambo Mohammed of Kano Pillars who could not travel due to injury. Gambo opened scoring in the first leg. Another injured striker, Haruna Babalo of El Kanemi Warriors was also dropped.
[caption id="attachment_402461" align="alignnone" width="412"]
FIRING POWER... Super Eagles attacking midfielder, Sunday Mba puts Ivorian players in the firing range as he scored a brace in yesterday’s CAF African Nations Championship qualifier at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium Kaduna.[/caption]Keshi would however, bank on the versatility of Afcon 2013 hero, Sunday Mba, striker Ezekiel Mbah whose commendable performance in the first leg helped the Eagles record a convincing win over the Ivorians and other players like Ifeanyi Ede who capped his debut with Eagles fourth goal in Kaduna. Flying Eagles and Rangers of Enugu striker, Alhaji Gero also made the trip to Abidjan, so, the Nigeria coach will not lack strikers.
In the defence the dependable figures like Godfrey Oboabona, Azubuike Egwuekwe, Solomon Kwambe, Chibuzor Okonkwo and Benjamin Francis all made the trip. Captain Chigozie Agbim will man the post.
The match comes up on Saturday in Abidjan.
Tuesday, 23 July 2013
Eagles Overhaul TEAP FC
The Super Eagles had their last test game before travelling to Abidjan on Tuesday evening in Abuja and came away with a hard fought 2-0 win over The Everlasting Arms Parish (TEAP) FC, of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
[caption id="attachment_405490" align="alignright" width="288"]
Mba[/caption]
The highly entertaining game had among the crowd former NFF board member and Technical Adviser of Lobi Stars, Dominic Iorfa, current board member and Chairman of the NFF Media Committee, Chief Emeka Inyama, NFF Director of Technical, Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme, National Competitions Director, Dr Sanusi Mohammed, former Flying Eagles and Golden Eaglets Assistant Coach Ben Iroha and NFF technical eye, Siji Lagunju.
Traditionally, Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi put his best legs forward in the opening half of the game but the likes of Chigozie Agbim, Solomon Kwambe, Benjamin Francis, Godfrey Oboabona, Azubuike Egwuekwe, Sunday Mba, Oladapo Olufemi and even Ifeayin Ede fail to break the resilience of the TEAP side in a half dominated by the Eagles.
problables. Agbim was out for Akpeyi, Gomo for Mba, Ajiya, Ezekiel Bassey and Ebenezer Oloruntoba also tasted action, same as Ganiyu Atanda. When referee Aniete Ukoh sounded the bhome whistle it was clear who the better side was.
TEAP Coach Malomo Paris, said he was again impressed by the display of the national side and his own team. “It was a good game but the better side won and we know we should have done better but this is the national team.”. Keshi simply said, it was again work in progress for the national team.
[caption id="attachment_405490" align="alignright" width="288"]
Mba[/caption]The highly entertaining game had among the crowd former NFF board member and Technical Adviser of Lobi Stars, Dominic Iorfa, current board member and Chairman of the NFF Media Committee, Chief Emeka Inyama, NFF Director of Technical, Dr Emmanuel Ikpeme, National Competitions Director, Dr Sanusi Mohammed, former Flying Eagles and Golden Eaglets Assistant Coach Ben Iroha and NFF technical eye, Siji Lagunju.
Traditionally, Eagles coach, Stephen Keshi put his best legs forward in the opening half of the game but the likes of Chigozie Agbim, Solomon Kwambe, Benjamin Francis, Godfrey Oboabona, Azubuike Egwuekwe, Sunday Mba, Oladapo Olufemi and even Ifeayin Ede fail to break the resilience of the TEAP side in a half dominated by the Eagles.
problables. Agbim was out for Akpeyi, Gomo for Mba, Ajiya, Ezekiel Bassey and Ebenezer Oloruntoba also tasted action, same as Ganiyu Atanda. When referee Aniete Ukoh sounded the bhome whistle it was clear who the better side was.
TEAP Coach Malomo Paris, said he was again impressed by the display of the national side and his own team. “It was a good game but the better side won and we know we should have done better but this is the national team.”. Keshi simply said, it was again work in progress for the national team.
Malawi shop for top-class players against Eagles
Flames caretaker coach Tom Saintfiet has said some players do not deserve to be in the Malawian national team and will be axed as he turns his focus to 2014 World Cup qualifier against the Super Eagles of Nigeria in September.
Saintfiet said he will forced to ring some changes after being let down by the performance of the players at the Cosafa Cup in Zambia, where the flames even to make the grade in the losers plate phase
“This will have consequences on some players. We will shift some players. We will only select players that will give out their maximum. I do not want to mention names, but if you saw the game (against Angola) you will notice that there was lack of commitment, especially the defence and goal keeping,” Saintfiet was quoted as saying on MBC.
FAM president Walter Nyamilandu has said players need to take responsibility for the Flames sterile performances.
“We have tried all sorts of coaches the players have to take responsibility as well and something drastic has to be worried done.
“The players that we have are not of world-class standard. They are lacking the cutting edge and we need top-class players if we are to beat Nigeria,” said Nyamilandu.
Saintfiet said he will forced to ring some changes after being let down by the performance of the players at the Cosafa Cup in Zambia, where the flames even to make the grade in the losers plate phase
“This will have consequences on some players. We will shift some players. We will only select players that will give out their maximum. I do not want to mention names, but if you saw the game (against Angola) you will notice that there was lack of commitment, especially the defence and goal keeping,” Saintfiet was quoted as saying on MBC.
FAM president Walter Nyamilandu has said players need to take responsibility for the Flames sterile performances.
“We have tried all sorts of coaches the players have to take responsibility as well and something drastic has to be worried done.
“The players that we have are not of world-class standard. They are lacking the cutting edge and we need top-class players if we are to beat Nigeria,” said Nyamilandu.
Thursday, 18 July 2013
Eagles can be great again — Iroha
Former Super Eagles left back Benedict Iroha has said that with improved performances from Nigerian players in Europe, the country will soon break into the exclusive list of 50 best players in the world.
“I can’t say that we do not have players that are doing very well for their clubs. Emenike, Moses, Igiebor, Musa and a host of others are doing well and if they keep up their good work, it is possible that they can break into the top players in the world,” said Iroha.
[caption id="attachment_371920" align="alignnone" width="412"]
BACKFLICK••• Super Eagles’ midfielder John Mikel Obi (L) watches as Kenya’s Mulinge Ndeto kicks the ball during their FIFA 2014 World Cup qualifying match on March 23 in Calabar. It ended 1-.1. PHOTO: AFP[/caption]
“We must re-work our mentality and also ensure our players sign for the right clubs and for the right offers too. With that we can compete with the very best in the coming years,” Iroha said.
“I can’t say that we do not have players that are doing very well for their clubs. Emenike, Moses, Igiebor, Musa and a host of others are doing well and if they keep up their good work, it is possible that they can break into the top players in the world,” said Iroha.
[caption id="attachment_371920" align="alignnone" width="412"]
BACKFLICK••• Super Eagles’ midfielder John Mikel Obi (L) watches as Kenya’s Mulinge Ndeto kicks the ball during their FIFA 2014 World Cup qualifying match on March 23 in Calabar. It ended 1-.1. PHOTO: AFP[/caption]“We must re-work our mentality and also ensure our players sign for the right clubs and for the right offers too. With that we can compete with the very best in the coming years,” Iroha said.
Sunday, 14 July 2013
Eagles camp resumes today
The home-based Super Eagles are expected to resume camp today ahead of the all-important clash against the Elephants at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny
Already, head coach Stephen Keshi has called 24 players to camp for the return leg of their 2014 African Nations Championship (CHAN) final qualifying game in Abidjan on July 27. The Super Eagles lead 4-1 from the first leg last weekend.
[caption id="attachment_320145" align="alignnone" width="412"]
File Photo: JOGGING ••• Super Eagles players loosening up before training.[/caption]
All the players are expected to report in Abuja today. Keshi has invited four new players, including one defender, one midfielder and two strikers, in line with a pledge to inject a few new faces following the first leg win at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna.
The new faces are Kwara United defender Ganiyu Ogungbe, Kano Pillars midfielder Rabiu Mohammed, and strikers Abdullahi Gero of Enugu Rangers and Osadinye Joseph of Warri Wolves.
Only 20 players will make the trip on July 24.
Already, head coach Stephen Keshi has called 24 players to camp for the return leg of their 2014 African Nations Championship (CHAN) final qualifying game in Abidjan on July 27. The Super Eagles lead 4-1 from the first leg last weekend.
[caption id="attachment_320145" align="alignnone" width="412"]
File Photo: JOGGING ••• Super Eagles players loosening up before training.[/caption]All the players are expected to report in Abuja today. Keshi has invited four new players, including one defender, one midfielder and two strikers, in line with a pledge to inject a few new faces following the first leg win at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna.
The new faces are Kwara United defender Ganiyu Ogungbe, Kano Pillars midfielder Rabiu Mohammed, and strikers Abdullahi Gero of Enugu Rangers and Osadinye Joseph of Warri Wolves.
Only 20 players will make the trip on July 24.
Thursday, 11 July 2013
Cote d’Ivoire: Keshi invites Mba, Oboabona, 22 others
Abuja - Super Eagles’ Head Coach, Stephen Keshi, on Thursday, called 24 players to camp to play at the final qualifying match against the Elephants of Cote d’Ivoire in Abidjan on July 27.
Ademola Olajire, the Assistant Director (Media) of the Nigeria Football Association (NFA) said in a statement in Abuja that the match was to qualify the team for the 2014 African Nations Championship.
He said the 24 players are expected to report in Abuja on July 15, where 20 players would be selected for the trip to Cote d’Ivoire on July 24, for the July 27 encounter.
The statement noted that ``Keshi has invited four new players, including one defender, one midfielder and two strikers, in line with a pledge to inject a few new faces, following last Saturday’s opening leg win at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna.
``They are Kwara United’s former junior international defender Ganiyu Ogungbe, Kano Pillar’s midfielder Rabiu Mohammed, junior international striker Abdullahi Gero of Enugu Rangers and Osadinye Joseph of Warri Wolves.’’
[caption id="attachment_358082" align="alignnone" width="412"]
Nigeria's forward Sunday Mba (C) celebrates with teammates after scoring the opening goal against Burkina Faso during the 2013 African Cup of Nations final football match between Burkina Faso and Nigeria on February 10, 2013 at Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg. AFP PHOTO [/caption]
It added that Sunday Mba, who scored two goals and made two others in the commanding 4-1 win, topped the list that also includes goalkeeper and skipper Chigozie Agbim.
Also on the list are defenders: Godfrey Oboabona, Azubuike Egwuekwe and Chibuzor Okonkwo, as well as midfielders Olufemi Oladapo and Ayo Saka, and forwards Muhammad Gambo, Ifeanyi Edeh and Dele Olorundare.
``Nigeria has a firm leg in next year’s finals in South Africa and Coach Keshi has promised that there will be no room for the Ivorians to attempt a spectacular come-back in the return leg at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny’’, the statement added.
THE FULL LIST
GOALKEEPERS: Chigozie Agbim (Enugu Rangers FC); Daniel Akpeyi (Heartland FC)
DEFENDERS: Azubuike Egwuekwe (Warri Wolves FC); Godfrey Oboabona (Sunshine Stars FC); Ganiyu Ogungbe (Kwara United FC); Kwambe Solomon (Sunshine Stars FC); Chibuzor Okonkwo (Enugu Rangers FC); Kunle Odunlami (Sunshine Stars FC); Benjamin Francis (Heartland FC); Ezekiel Bassey (Lobi Stars FC).
MIDFIELDERS: Sunday Mba (Enugu Rangers FC); Rabiu Mohammed (Kano Pillars FC); Oladapo (Shooting Stars FC); Ayo Saka (Enyimba FC); Mohammed Jiya (Bayelsa United FC).
STRIKERS: Muhammad Gambo (Kano Pillars); Gomo Onduku (Bayelsa United FC); Ifeanyi Edeh (Enyimba FC); Ezekiel Mbah (Akwa United FC); Abdullahi Gero (Enugu Rangers FC); Osadinye Joseph (Warri Wolves FC);
Ademola Olajire, the Assistant Director (Media) of the Nigeria Football Association (NFA) said in a statement in Abuja that the match was to qualify the team for the 2014 African Nations Championship.
He said the 24 players are expected to report in Abuja on July 15, where 20 players would be selected for the trip to Cote d’Ivoire on July 24, for the July 27 encounter.
The statement noted that ``Keshi has invited four new players, including one defender, one midfielder and two strikers, in line with a pledge to inject a few new faces, following last Saturday’s opening leg win at the Ahmadu Bello Stadium, Kaduna.
``They are Kwara United’s former junior international defender Ganiyu Ogungbe, Kano Pillar’s midfielder Rabiu Mohammed, junior international striker Abdullahi Gero of Enugu Rangers and Osadinye Joseph of Warri Wolves.’’
[caption id="attachment_358082" align="alignnone" width="412"]
Nigeria's forward Sunday Mba (C) celebrates with teammates after scoring the opening goal against Burkina Faso during the 2013 African Cup of Nations final football match between Burkina Faso and Nigeria on February 10, 2013 at Soccer City stadium in Johannesburg. AFP PHOTO [/caption]It added that Sunday Mba, who scored two goals and made two others in the commanding 4-1 win, topped the list that also includes goalkeeper and skipper Chigozie Agbim.
Also on the list are defenders: Godfrey Oboabona, Azubuike Egwuekwe and Chibuzor Okonkwo, as well as midfielders Olufemi Oladapo and Ayo Saka, and forwards Muhammad Gambo, Ifeanyi Edeh and Dele Olorundare.
``Nigeria has a firm leg in next year’s finals in South Africa and Coach Keshi has promised that there will be no room for the Ivorians to attempt a spectacular come-back in the return leg at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny’’, the statement added.
THE FULL LIST
GOALKEEPERS: Chigozie Agbim (Enugu Rangers FC); Daniel Akpeyi (Heartland FC)
DEFENDERS: Azubuike Egwuekwe (Warri Wolves FC); Godfrey Oboabona (Sunshine Stars FC); Ganiyu Ogungbe (Kwara United FC); Kwambe Solomon (Sunshine Stars FC); Chibuzor Okonkwo (Enugu Rangers FC); Kunle Odunlami (Sunshine Stars FC); Benjamin Francis (Heartland FC); Ezekiel Bassey (Lobi Stars FC).
MIDFIELDERS: Sunday Mba (Enugu Rangers FC); Rabiu Mohammed (Kano Pillars FC); Oladapo (Shooting Stars FC); Ayo Saka (Enyimba FC); Mohammed Jiya (Bayelsa United FC).
STRIKERS: Muhammad Gambo (Kano Pillars); Gomo Onduku (Bayelsa United FC); Ifeanyi Edeh (Enyimba FC); Ezekiel Mbah (Akwa United FC); Abdullahi Gero (Enugu Rangers FC); Osadinye Joseph (Warri Wolves FC);
Monday, 8 July 2013
We won’t be defensive in Abidjan - Okonkwo
By Jacob Ajom
Super Eagles defender, Chibuzor Okonkwo has said that when they take on the Elephants of Ivory Coast in the second leg of the African Nations Championship qualifier in Abidjan they will go all out for an outright win.
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Chibuzor Okonkwo[/caption]
Speaking to Sports Vanguard at the Super Eagles’ African Continental Hotel camp in Kaduna, Okonkwo said, “we scored 4-1 here today, nothing stops us from beating them again in their home. We are not going there to defend. We will also attack and go for goals. We will play that match as if the first leg had not been played yet.”
Okonkwo who was part of the Samson Siasia team that failed to qualify for the same competition in the past believes this is the right time for the home-based Super Eagles to make their mark in the competition. “Now we have à perfect team with very fantastic players that can make it happen. We have all it takes to be in South Africa and by God’s grace we will be there.”
Continuing, Okonkwo said, “when we get there, we will be the team to beat because we will be going as African champions. We are going to bring the trophy to Nigeria”.
Super Eagles defender, Chibuzor Okonkwo has said that when they take on the Elephants of Ivory Coast in the second leg of the African Nations Championship qualifier in Abidjan they will go all out for an outright win.
[caption id="attachment_206344" align="alignright" width="200"]
Chibuzor Okonkwo[/caption]Speaking to Sports Vanguard at the Super Eagles’ African Continental Hotel camp in Kaduna, Okonkwo said, “we scored 4-1 here today, nothing stops us from beating them again in their home. We are not going there to defend. We will also attack and go for goals. We will play that match as if the first leg had not been played yet.”
Okonkwo who was part of the Samson Siasia team that failed to qualify for the same competition in the past believes this is the right time for the home-based Super Eagles to make their mark in the competition. “Now we have à perfect team with very fantastic players that can make it happen. We have all it takes to be in South Africa and by God’s grace we will be there.”
Continuing, Okonkwo said, “when we get there, we will be the team to beat because we will be going as African champions. We are going to bring the trophy to Nigeria”.
Eagles will get better - Agbim
Super Eagles goalkeeper, Chigozie Agbim, has hailed the performance of his teammates after their resounding 4-1 win over the Elephants of Ivory Coast, even as he disclosed his displeasure at the goal he conceded.
The former Golden Eaglets star told supersport.com in Kaduna that despite the win, the goal that he conceded was the only dark spot in a near perfect match.
[caption id="attachment_402867" align="alignright" width="200"]
Chigozie Agbim[/caption]
“The game was okay. Although we did pretty well, we conceded a sloppy goal when our defenders went to sleep.
“We switched off at the wrong time and we paid for it, we have learnt our lessons and we will not make such mistakes again,” Agbim said.
Coach Stephen Keshi was visibly angry at the goal and Agbim confirmed that indeed Keshi was disappointed.
“The coach congratulated us for the win but also expressed his sadness over the goal we let in. We had some new boys in the team, but we have all learnt from the game.
“We will approach the second leg with all seriousness and we call on all Nigerians to continue to support the team in our quest to qualify for the Chan and ultimately the World Cup,” Agbim enthused.
Nigeria beat Ivory Coast 4-1 through goals from Gambo Mohammed, a brace by Sunday Mba and a late strike via Ifeanyi Ede. Coulibaly Tiecoura got the Ivorians only goal of the game to set the stage for the second leg in the weekend of July 20 and 21.
The former Golden Eaglets star told supersport.com in Kaduna that despite the win, the goal that he conceded was the only dark spot in a near perfect match.
[caption id="attachment_402867" align="alignright" width="200"]
Chigozie Agbim[/caption]“The game was okay. Although we did pretty well, we conceded a sloppy goal when our defenders went to sleep.
“We switched off at the wrong time and we paid for it, we have learnt our lessons and we will not make such mistakes again,” Agbim said.
Coach Stephen Keshi was visibly angry at the goal and Agbim confirmed that indeed Keshi was disappointed.
“The coach congratulated us for the win but also expressed his sadness over the goal we let in. We had some new boys in the team, but we have all learnt from the game.
“We will approach the second leg with all seriousness and we call on all Nigerians to continue to support the team in our quest to qualify for the Chan and ultimately the World Cup,” Agbim enthused.
Nigeria beat Ivory Coast 4-1 through goals from Gambo Mohammed, a brace by Sunday Mba and a late strike via Ifeanyi Ede. Coulibaly Tiecoura got the Ivorians only goal of the game to set the stage for the second leg in the weekend of July 20 and 21.
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