The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has cautioned the Super Eagles B to avoid complacency as they prepare for their crucial second-leg encounter against Ghana in the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers, Nigeriasoccernet.com can report.
The decisive match is set to take place on Saturday, December 28, at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
Addressing the team, Olopade stressed the importance of utilizing home advantage and maintaining tactical discipline throughout the game.
“This is not the time to relax or underestimate the opposition. The team must stay focused and give their best to avoid a repeat of the past disappointment against Ghana. The stakes are high, and the country is counting on them to deliver,” Olopade stated.
The first leg in Ghana ended in a goalless stalemate, leaving the tie wide open. The winner of the Uyo clash will secure a spot in the 8th African Nations Championship. Drawing parallels to Nigeria's failure to qualify for the Qatar 2022 World Cup after a similar situation with Ghana, Olopade urged the team to learn from the past and seize this opportunity to redeem themselves.
“This is an opportunity for redemption and to bring pride to the nation. I urge the team to stay united, maintain focus, and ensure they secure the victory we need,” he added.
The Super Eagles B squad, composed entirely of home-based players, is expected to draw energy from the passionate home crowd in Uyo. Fans are anticipated to turn out in large numbers to cheer the team as they aim to secure the much-needed victory and earn a place in the continental tournament.
The match is being viewed as a critical test of character and strategy for the Nigerian team, with national pride and a ticket to CHAN 2024 on the line.
Oluwayemi Omolagba