Super Eagles keeper, Carl Ikeme
It is certainly very painful to watch the ongoing African Cup of Nations without the Super Eagles of Nigeria, the 2013 AFCON champions, participating. Even the Confederation of African Football (CAF) and the Federation of International Football Federation (FIFA) have often complained whenever Nigeria has failed to qualify for international competitions because of the losses they record in terms of revenue and because of the elegance that Nigeria brings into all competitions as a respected name in football.
The Nigeria Football Supporters Club always adds colour to the CAF/FIFA competitions.
Had Nigeria qualified for the continental showpiece, there is no doubt that young players such as Kelechi Iheanacho, Alex Iwobi, Ogenekharo Etebo and many others would have had a great opportunity to showcase their talents and give a glimpse into the future of African football.
The future no doubt belongs to the young players. In this connection, the recent statement by Mikel Obi, the Eagles’ captain, that he opted to join the Chinese league in order to be match-fit for Nigeria in the forthcoming qualifiers should serve as a challenge to the nation to mentor and develop younger players that will do Nigeria proud.
After missing the AFCON two times in a row, stakeholders in the round-leather game must ensure that the country qualifies for the next continental showpiece which will be held in 2019. The Nigeria Football Federation must give Coach Gernet Rorh the free hand to select ruthless, mentally strong and superb players who will terrorize teams from anywhere in Afric and ensure that Nigeria once again returns to the acme of African football. So far, the coach has shown that he is the right man to take the Eagles to the next level in African football. He should not be distracted in any way. He should be paid his dues and given all the support that he needs to excel.
More important, the NFF should start thinking of ways to raise money now, so that issues of bonus and allowances do not dog the Super Eagles’ preparation for, and participation in, the next AFCON. Nigerians will not tolerate any excuses next time.
Sunday Oluwasegun
Lagos.
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