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"The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup - Sports (3447) - Nairaland

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Cameroon's Douala Stadium Artificial Grassfield For AFCON 2019 Stolen / Super Eagles Arrive In Uyo, Train Ahead Of Their AFCON 2019 Qualifier (Pictures) / AFCON 2019: Nigeria To Battle South Africa For A Place (Full Draws) (2) (3) (4)

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Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by Martz101: 1:30pm On May 03, 2018
ChrisKels:
The day I called Allison over rated, some people here came for my head so much so that someone said Allison was the Messi of the goalkeeping department. And that Liverpool was after him to come solve their goalkeeping problems. But over these two legs, Karius showed who the better goalkeeper is even with some horrible defenders but van Dijk, in front of him unlike Allison who had the Gonalons, Manolas, Florenzis and Kolarov of this world in front of him.

11 goals in 4 matches. To those that doubted me that day, breeze dun blow ooo grin

Allison is a good keeper, they no dey catch goal, even buffon or de gea dey collect on a good day

1 Like

Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by ChrisKels: 1:47pm On May 03, 2018
Mickael2:




prior to yesterday Roma never conceded a goal at home in the UCL and when you consider that they played against Barca and Madrid and Chelsea that should tell you that you should be laughing at yourself.

by the way let me ask, na Allison be that guy wey misplace the pass that led to the first goal? Na Allison be that tall guy wey head ball give Wijnaldum? I am not sure I get your point if there is any

Did u see his unnecessary showboating? His clearances, the way he spills shots and his lack of ability to properly organise his defense unlike Karius? I will reiterate, Alisson ain't all what his fans want us to believe he is. He's good but the hype is too much, hence, he's overhyped nwoke m
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by ChrisKels: 1:48pm On May 03, 2018
Martz101:


Allison is a good keeper, they no dey catch goal, even buffon or de gea dey collect on a good day

OK sir
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by chrisooblog: 2:02pm On May 03, 2018
realpoacher:


At bolded, he is very ready for the world cup.

From what i saw yesterday and over the course of the UCL knockout stages...., i refuse to look down on Uzoho henceforth because I saw nothing of note done by any of these top class goalies to merit their pay and name!

I will not be cajoled or bought over by name, titles or the hogwash talk about experience when in actual sense non could deliver on the pitch when it mattered most.

For christ sake, every shot at ultriech was a fucccking goal. Its ridiculous..... embarassed.. Even Navas was not spared

Last night, it was goals galore at both ends of Alison and karius.... If i didn't watch these matches, i would probably have been brainwashed with hullabaloos... But it seems like i sat down there last night at the viewing center watching basketball � instead of football. Same for Madrid vs Juventus match, same for Liverpool vs Roma first leg, same for Barcelona vs Roma

The keepers performance so far is Atrocious, say it as it is... I can't watch such crap from supposed experienced, top class goalies and turn around to say Uzoho is not ready for the world cup. He is ready!!

Read my lips.... UZOHO IS READY!.. UZOHO IS READY!!.... UZOHO IS READY!!!
bro i admire your patriotism and defence of uzoho but the truth of the matter is if not for our current dicey goalkeeping situation francis would be far from being considered a choice for the number 1 slot.

all top goalkeepers have at one point in their careers conceded bucket loads of goals but their is a reason why they command the number 1 shirt experience, consistent good/great performances over a period of time and obviously talent. francis as good as he is still has a lot of errors in his game that can't just be over looked. if rohr picks him to man the post at the world cup all well and good i will give him full 100% support.

but bro be honest if the roma, liverpool or man city goalkeepers for some reason were eligible to play for nigeria are you saying in all honesty you would not pick them over uzoho?

1 Like

Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by andrew444(m): 2:09pm On May 03, 2018
ChrisKels:


Did u see his unnecessary showboating? His clearances, the way he spills shots and his lack of ability to properly organise his defense unlike Karius? I will reiterate, Alisson ain't all what his fans want us to believe he is. He's good but the hype is too much, hence, he's overhyped nwoke m

Karius is not good as you think,not even among top 4 German keepers,yet to be considered at the national team,somebody say dem no dey catch goal and that's true,liverpool defence is something to be worried of,and yes Allison is also overhyped as you say,not as good as we think

1 Like

Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by realpoacher(m): 2:22pm On May 03, 2018
chrisooblog:
bro i admire your patriotism and defence of uzoho but the truth of the matter is if not for our current dicey goalkeeping situation francis would be far from being considered a choice for the number 1 slot.

all top goalkeepers have at one point in their careers conceded bucket loads of goals but their is a reason why they command the number 1 shirt experience, consistent good/great performances over a period of time and obviously talent. francis as good as he is still has a lot of errors in his game that can't just be over looked. if rohr picks him to man the post at the world cup all well and good i will give him full 100% support.

but bro be honest if the roma, liverpool or man city goalkeepers for some reason were eligible to play for nigeria are you saying in all honesty you would not pick them over uzoho?

To answer your question...

I will definitely pick anyone of either Roma, Liverpool, or Manchester city keepers if eligible to play for us.......Who wouldn't??

But wake up and smell the coffee ☕, the reality on ground is different. We have just few options in Ezenwa, Ajiboye, Ejide, Aiyenugba and Uzoho... With these options i will certainly pick Uzoho among the lots not because he is the best but because going forward into the future, its going to be a better decision.

Age has caught up with the rest and like they say... You can't teach an old dog new tricks

But fortunately for us Uzoho is a young puppy �... So fill in the blank spaces

1 Like

Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by chrisooblog: 2:27pm On May 03, 2018
realpoacher:


To answer your question...

I will definitely pick anyone of either Roma, Liverpool, or Manchester city keepers if eligible to play for us.......Who wouldn't??

But wake up and smell the coffee ☕, the reality on ground is different. We have just few options in Ezenwa, Ajiboye, Ejide, Aiyenugba and Uzoho... With these options i will certainly pick Uzoho among the lots not because he is the best but because going forward into the future, its going to be a better decision.

Age has caught up with the rest and like they say... You can't teach an old dog new tricks

But fortunately for us Uzoho is a young puppy �... So fill in the blank spaces
i raised the point in my last paragraph when you mentioned how many goals the aforementioned conceded

yes uzoho is the youngest of the bunch but can we categorically say he's the best? left to coach rohr to decide
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by femianski: 2:53pm On May 03, 2018
either you guys like it or not uzoho will be our first choice goalie at the mundial

3 Likes

Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by ChrisKels: 3:50pm On May 03, 2018
andrew444:


Karius is not as good as you think ,not even among top 4 German keepers,yet to be considered at the national team,somebody say dem no dey catch goal and that's true,liverpool defence is something to be worried of,and yes Allison is also overhyped as you say,not as good as we think

He is as good as I think he is but not in De Gea's level same as Alisson.

I agree with every other thing u wrote up there. First time I ever agreed with You since you came aboard this ship grin
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by MetalJigsaw(m): 3:57pm On May 03, 2018
Agent Denies Purported Monaco Bid For Gent Winger Kalu

0 May 3, 2018 2:56 pm
By Johnny Edward:
Samuel Kalu’s agent, Tony Harris, has denied reports linking his player away from Gent this summer, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.

Kalu has been linked with a £10m move to French side, AS Monaco.
According to a report on a Belgian website, Het Nieuwsblad, Harris dispelled the report referring to it as ‘fake news’ and that of Hillary Gong, a Nigerian player who is reportedly attracting interest from teams in Holland and Belgium.

Gong has scored ten goals in 33 games for AS Trencin.

“Nowadays there is an urgency to be the first to come out with news and many football websites take over,” Harris told Het Nieuwsblad.

“The bid of £10m from Monaco for Kalu and that from Anderlecht for Hillary Gong is fake news.”

Kalu has six goals and seven assists in 34 games for Gent this season. He is expected to feature for Gent when they take on Charleroi in Friday’s Belgian Pro League play-offs 1 clash



https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/agent-denies-purported-monaco-bid-for-gent-winger-kalu/
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by MetalJigsaw(m): 4:05pm On May 03, 2018
Echiejile: I’m Focusing On World Cup, Not New Deal With Cercle Brugge
3 May 2, 2018

Elderson Echiejile says that is not thinking about signing a contract extension with Cercle Brugge, but concentrating on being in great form to make Super Eagles final squad to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Echiejile’s six-month loan deal at the Belgian club expires this summer, and he has an offer to extend his stay at the newly promoted top division side, Completesportsnigeria.com gathered.

Cercle Brugge defeated Beerschot Wilrijk 3-1 in March to seal their return to the elite division after three years.

“The World Cup is around the corner and we’ll see what happens next,” Echiejile told Completesportsnigeria.com.

“I haven’t thought about it yet; I have another a year contract with Monaco and I am very happy. I just think about the end of the season and to stay in good shape and form for the World Cup.”

Echiejile played for Turkish side Sivasspor at the start of the 2017/18 season before joining Cercle Brugge in January in search of regular football.

The left-back who missed out on the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil due to injury, has made 53 international appearances for the Super Eagles and scored twice.



https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/echiejile-im-focusing-on-world-cup-not-new-deal-with-cercle-brugge/

1 Like

Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by andrew444(m): 4:14pm On May 03, 2018
ChrisKels:


He is as good as I think he is but not in De Gea's level same as Alisson.

I agree with every other thing u wrote up there. First time I ever agreed with You since you came aboard this ship grin

Lol funny you,abeg no call Degea here nah,you dey embarass am ooo.Degea is the best keeper in the word, Allison and karius is not up to Terstegen level let alone Magician Degea?
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by Icon79(m): 4:25pm On May 03, 2018
Interesting!

Something tells me that somebody might get disappointed.
#JustSaying


O pari

MetalJigsaw:
Echiejile: I’m Focusing On World Cup, Not New Deal With Cercle Brugge
3 May 2, 2018

Elderson Echiejile says that is not thinking about signing a contract extension with Cercle Brugge, but concentrating on being in great form to make Super Eagles final squad to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Echiejile’s six-month loan deal at the Belgian club expires this summer, and he has an offer to extend his stay at the newly promoted top division side, Completesportsnigeria.com gathered.

Cercle Brugge defeated Beerschot Wilrijk 3-1 in March to seal their return to the elite division after three years.

“The World Cup is around the corner and we’ll see what happens next,” Echiejile told Completesportsnigeria.com.

“I haven’t thought about it yet; I have another a year contract with Monaco and I am very happy. I just think about the end of the season and to stay in good shape and form for the World Cup.”

Echiejile played for Turkish side Sivasspor at the start of the 2017/18 season before joining Cercle Brugge in January in search of regular football.

The left-back who missed out on the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil due to injury, has made 53 international appearances for the Super Eagles and scored twice.



https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/echiejile-im-focusing-on-world-cup-not-new-deal-with-cercle-brugge/
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by MetalJigsaw(m): 4:28pm On May 03, 2018
CIES Observatory Rules Nigeria Out Of World Cup Title, Tips Spain; Pinnick Disagrees
May 1, 2018


Reputable research group CIES Football Observatory has emphatically ruled Nigeria’s Super Eagles out of contention for the Russia 2018 World Cup trophy, Completesportsnigeria.com reports.

In the group’s weekly post (issue number 225), Nigeria are ranked the 22nd best out of the 32 teams that will be at the tournament whick kicks off on June 14.

The reserach group’s study looked at the number of matches players used in the 2018 World Cup qualification stage were involved in at domestic league level since July 2017 and the profile of clubs that they featured for before arriving at the decision that ranks Spain as the favourite for the title.

Nigeria’s Group D foes at the World Cup in Russia, Argentina and Croatia, are ranked seventh and eighth respectively in the table with Iceland coming in as 23rd best behind Nigeria.

Among the five African countries that will participate in the mundial, the Super Eagles are ranked the third best behind Sadio Mane’s Senegal, who are ranked the most likely African nation to spring a surprise and Morocco.

Mohammed Salah’s Egypt are the least ranked outsiders among the Africn nations behind Tunisia.

Meanwhile Nigeria Football Federation President, Amaju Pinnick, insists Nigeria are capable of springing that surprise in Russia by going all the way to the final to win the trophy.

“Again, people say why do I say that Nigeria can win the World Cup. If you have a child, what do you wish for the child- for him to be the best and nothing else. And if you have a younger brother, what do you pray for him to achieve? To be better than you. So, I don’t have any regret saying that Nigeria can win the World Cup,” Pinnick said.



https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/cies-observatory-rules-nigeria-out-of-world-cup-title-tips-spain-pinnick-disagrees/
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by MetalJigsaw(m): 4:31pm On May 03, 2018
Icon79:
Interesting!
Something tells me that somebody might get disappointed. #JustSaying

O pari
LOL.
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by MetalJigsaw(m): 4:35pm On May 03, 2018
Icon79:
Interesting!
Something tells me that somebody might get disappointed. #JustSaying

O pari
You can say that again bro

1 Like

Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by Icon4s(m): 4:37pm On May 03, 2018
SIGHTS AND SOUNDS OF RUSSIA

Top 10 Russian foods.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lDBMfrOZ1lI

Bon Appetit!

3 Likes

Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by Icon4s(m): 4:43pm On May 03, 2018
SIGHTS AND SOUND OF RUSSIA


VIDEO OF ALL 11 HOSTING CITIES


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PKRyMsowB_8

3 Likes

Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by Mickael2(m): 4:48pm On May 03, 2018
ChrisKels:


Did u see his unnecessary showboating? His clearances, the way he spills shots and his lack of ability to properly organise his defense unlike Karius? I will reiterate, Alisson ain't all what his fans want us to believe he is. He's good but the hype is too much, hence, he's overhyped nwoke m


I think you watched another game. did you see how his defenders always stayed on the blind side of Salah easily dispossessing him? don't you know it's the gk that directs that? how many chances did they concede and how many crosses did he spill? Maybe you should go and watch his other games to have a proper insight as to how good he is.
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by Orkpekyandega(m): 4:52pm On May 03, 2018
mazimee:
PINNICK: Untold story of Super Eagles qualification for Russia 2018

Mojirade Ojo
8 hours ago

It is not the greatest love story that was almost never told like the Shakespeare secret affair but a journey of passion and grace.

But the process of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup Russia 2018 was also as beautiful and some of the intrigues made it even more fascinating. The Super Eagles were well underrated after they failed to qualify for the 2015 and 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) under a lot of scrutiny and their competence questioned.

Those criticisms turned into fuel for the thick-skinned leadership of the NFF and they delightfully turned things around and delivered a precious sixth World Cup ticket for one of Africa’s biggest football powerhouse.

Nigeria qualified for the 2018 World Cup in Russia in spectacular fashion ahead of favourites Algeria, Zambia and current African Champions Cameroon.


NFF President Amaju Pinnick at an event captures the interesting details of how the Super Eagles achieved such a feat, engaging the services of German Coach Rohr at a time when coaching Nigeria was seen with disdain, playing the necessary politics and the Aiteo partnership which has provided financial security for the National Teams and NFF, reports CHIJIOKE EZEALI.



Planning ahead with Akinwunmi and Dikko

I recall that I was asked “Do you think if (Issa) Hayatou is there we’ll qualify?” For two nights I slept and thought about it – Cameroon being in our group and this man is already 71 years old and possibly if he wins the elections that will be his last time.

What about a parting gift to Cameroon off the field? We looked at Algeria, they had the best record – they had gone about 13 games unbeaten. Zambia were AFCON winner, then I saw a news that in the history of World Cup qualification, the group we are in was the toughest in the history of World Cup qualifier anywhere in the world.

Three of them were AFCON winners and in very rich form. We looked at all these and said to ourselves that we must overcome these. Three of us (Shehu Dikko, Seyi Akinwunmi) held each other and said, ‘let’s go and let do it’ and thank God we did it and, today, we are in Russia.


How NFF arrived at the choice of Super Eagles Coach, Gernot Rohr

The first thing we did was getting a new coach. Of course, we all remember Claude Leroy – to us it was a blessing in disguise. Because when we decided again that we wanted a coach, of course

everyone knows that I’m an Arsenal supporter, so I reached out to Arsene Wenger for consultation for a coach. I tried to reach out to Gerrard Houllier and so many other eggheads in coaching and technical expertise and one name came to fore and that was Gernot Rohr.

I remember, one of them asked “Will he (Rohr) want to leave his lucrative job with the German federation, heading one of their technical groups to come to Nigeria.”

I was told he was a very comfortable coach; he has two hotels, he lives very well and he is very happy. Even at a point, he was going to coach Madagascar free of charge because his wife is from there. I prayed over it and believed he would come – that’s where the journey began.

We called him and because I prayed – I believe in prayer; if you don’t, please start to pray because it is very important and the first thing he said was “if you offer me the job, I will try and redefine Nigerian football because you have huge talent. Where I worked before, we struggled with talent but the kind of talents you have in Nigeria is amazing and I will try but I’m not telling you that Iam going to do this or that but I’ll do my best.

“But one thing you will do is support me because modern day football has a lot of off-the-field arrangements that impact on the field.” And I asked him what and he said: “We need a chiropractor, an Usthropath, a Yoga coach, a match analyst for defence, attack and midfield and everybody will have a major role to play.”

I asked him: “What do you need a yoga coach for, no be Chinese we dey fight nah?” and he said to me: “Yoga training calms you down and gives you concentration.”

Gambling over Gernot Rohr

How are we going to fund this? It was difficult initially and looked impossible but we looked at ourselves and decided to take the risk for Nigeria because if you don’t venture, you can’t succeed.

Good enough, Shehu Dikko is from Zaria, they love taking risk – we know the history of Zaria. Seyi Akinwunmi is the only one that is a bit Lagos boy but he is also an Isale Eko boy whether he likes it or not. Then me, a Warri man – our life is risk.

So, we decided to throw our hat into the ring and take the risk. And one of such risks was me running for the CAF executive committee, so that we can play all the politics necessary. Another risk was that of the coach. He (Rohr) came for the interview after I bought him the flight ticket. The technical committee met at the office of the LMC while I and Seyi were in Lagos – then Shehu ran out to us immediately after the interview and said “President, this is the coach! Trust me; we are in the World Cup.” I swear to God that’s what he said.

He (Shehu) said, “He (Rohr) is matured, calm and even while we tried to run him rough – he was calm and answered every question thrown at him 100%. So, president, please insist that you want this coach.”

We got the report; it was ok by the then technical committee even though there was some off course, we understand, but we went ahead and employed the coach.

It was tough at the beginning because the companies that promised us that they were going to pay for the service of the coach withdrew because there were fundamental changes at some top level.

Aiteo rescued broke NFF

In my area, whenever I’m jogging – I’ll look at one MD that is jogging around and jog behind him. I will just say, ‘I’m the NFF president and we are in a dilemma, can I follow you to your house or can see you later?’ At a point, I will say Seyi, give me N5, 000 and for the first three months it was very tough before the glorious days started coming and that’s the coming of Aiteo.

And once they came in, they didn’t look back. As I speak to you Gernot Rohr has been paid to December 31, 2017. We have offered him a new two-year contract extension. All the details will be worked out by the legal committee and other relevant committee in the federation.

We want to keep him because assuming he won the World Cup, don’t you think that the German federation will want him? We don’t want to be like Arsenal that waited until the last minute to sign Mesut Ozil. We want to be like Barcelona that gave Lionel Messi a new deal with three years still left on his contract.

The combo with Akinwunmi and Dikko

It was a very tortuous journey and the first step we took was when I won election into the CAF Executive Committee. Seyi looked at me and said: “President, I told you – you have won and we are going to qualify for the World Cup. So, all the necessary politics off the field you must play. Everything Nigeria needs to qualify, you will do.”

Another thing that came to mind is when Shehu said to me: “President, we must look for money. We must make sure we interface with the government where necessary and make sure we don’t owe the players anything. Forget that they earn huge salaries, they have families, they have responsibilities in Nigeria – they see what is going on and don’t want to be part of failure after their playing days, so we must encourage them.”

Of course, we interfaced with the government and thankfully they responded and made sure we paid A-Z.

Young and gifted Super Eagles

Who do you think in the premier league is better than Odion Ighalo in attack or better than Victor Moses? During our friendly against Argentina, Sergio Aguero begged to be removed from the game, so we must always have absolute trust and confidence in our players.

The beauty about the Super Eagles is that they are more for the future than today. All our players revolve around 19-22 years. Look at our full backs, Ebuehi and Ola Aina, central: (William) Ekong and Leon (Balogun), look at our midfield and attack while people like Victor Osimhen are still coming. So, we have a rich future.

We have a team already and this is the German model Seyi designed for me years ago. The German model of not just having a Super Eagles of today but one for tomorrow.

Look at Cameroon and Cote d’Ivoire, they have just a team for team and that’s what affected them. So, we are also planning for the future. On the part of the federation, I’m not going to tell you that we are 100%, because we are not. I have my problem, the executive committee have their own problem, the secretariat has their problem – everybody has their own problem but because we have this problem, are you going to say every minute we should resign? So, I just want to crave your indulgence that we are out here, wanting to build, develop and strengthen football.


http://thenationonlineng.net/pinnick-untold-story-super-eagles-qualification-russia-2018/amp/
Oga Icon4s, I strongly believe you can sell your idea of Nigeria having a standing U21 team to serve as a test running platform for young or upcoming players to play for the Super Eagles.

With what I have read above coming from Mr. Pinnic, he should buy the idea.

This Pinnic just de impress me.

The meal is getting sweeter.........
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by Orkpekyandega(m): 4:54pm On May 03, 2018
mazimee:
PINNICK: Untold story of Super Eagles qualification for Russia 2018

Mojirade Ojo
8 hours ago

It is not the greatest love story that was almost never told like the Shakespeare secret affair but a journey of passion and grace.

But the process of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup Russia 2018 was also as beautiful and some of the intrigues made it even more fascinating. The Super Eagles were well underrated after they failed to qualify for the 2015 and 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) under a lot of scrutiny and their competence questioned.

Those criticisms turned into fuel for the thick-skinned leadership of the NFF and they delightfully turned things around and delivered a precious sixth World Cup ticket for one of Africa’s biggest football powerhouse.

Nigeria qualified for the 2018 World Cup in Russia in spectacular fashion ahead of favourites Algeria, Zambia and current African Champions Cameroon.


NFF President Amaju Pinnick at an event captures the interesting details of how the Super Eagles achieved such a feat, engaging the services of German Coach Rohr at a time when coaching Nigeria was seen with disdain, playing the necessary politics and the Aiteo partnership which has provided financial security for the National Teams and NFF, reports CHIJIOKE EZEALI.



Planning ahead with Akinwunmi and Dikko

I recall that I was asked “Do you think if (Issa) Hayatou is there we’ll qualify?” For two nights I slept and thought about it – Cameroon being in our group and this man is already 71 years old and possibly if he wins the elections that will be his last time.

What about a parting gift to Cameroon off the field? We looked at Algeria, they had the best record – they had gone about 13 games unbeaten. Zambia were AFCON winner, then I saw a news that in the history of World Cup qualification, the group we are in was the toughest in the history of World Cup qualifier anywhere in the world.

Three of them were AFCON winners and in very rich form. We looked at all these and said to ourselves that we must overcome these. Three of us (Shehu Dikko, Seyi Akinwunmi) held each other and said, ‘let’s go and let do it’ and thank God we did it and, today, we are in Russia.


How NFF arrived at the choice of Super Eagles Coach, Gernot Rohr

The first thing we did was getting a new coach. Of course, we all remember Claude Leroy – to us it was a blessing in disguise. Because when we decided again that we wanted a coach, of course

everyone knows that I’m an Arsenal supporter, so I reached out to Arsene Wenger for consultation for a coach. I tried to reach out to Gerrard Houllier and so many other eggheads in coaching and technical expertise and one name came to fore and that was Gernot Rohr.

I remember, one of them asked “Will he (Rohr) want to leave his lucrative job with the German federation, heading one of their technical groups to come to Nigeria.”

I was told he was a very comfortable coach; he has two hotels, he lives very well and he is very happy. Even at a point, he was going to coach Madagascar free of charge because his wife is from there. I prayed over it and believed he would come – that’s where the journey began.

We called him and because I prayed – I believe in prayer; if you don’t, please start to pray because it is very important and the first thing he said was “if you offer me the job, I will try and redefine Nigerian football because you have huge talent. Where I worked before, we struggled with talent but the kind of talents you have in Nigeria is amazing and I will try but I’m not telling you that Iam going to do this or that but I’ll do my best.

“But one thing you will do is support me because modern day football has a lot of off-the-field arrangements that impact on the field.” And I asked him what and he said: “We need a chiropractor, an Usthropath, a Yoga coach, a match analyst for defence, attack and midfield and everybody will have a major role to play.”

I asked him: “What do you need a yoga coach for, no be Chinese we dey fight nah?” and he said to me: “Yoga training calms you down and gives you concentration.”

Gambling over Gernot Rohr

How are we going to fund this? It was difficult initially and looked impossible but we looked at ourselves and decided to take the risk for Nigeria because if you don’t venture, you can’t succeed.

Good enough, Shehu Dikko is from Zaria, they love taking risk – we know the history of Zaria. Seyi Akinwunmi is the only one that is a bit Lagos boy but he is also an Isale Eko boy whether he likes it or not. Then me, a Warri man – our life is risk.

So, we decided to throw our hat into the ring and take the risk. And one of such risks was me running for the CAF executive committee, so that we can play all the politics necessary. Another risk was that of the coach. He (Rohr) came for the interview after I bought him the flight ticket. The technical committee met at the office of the LMC while I and Seyi were in Lagos – then Shehu ran out to us immediately after the interview and said “President, this is the coach! Trust me; we are in the World Cup.” I swear to God that’s what he said.

He (Shehu) said, “He (Rohr) is matured, calm and even while we tried to run him rough – he was calm and answered every question thrown at him 100%. So, president, please insist that you want this coach.”

We got the report; it was ok by the then technical committee even though there was some off course, we understand, but we went ahead and employed the coach.

It was tough at the beginning because the companies that promised us that they were going to pay for the service of the coach withdrew because there were fundamental changes at some top level.

Aiteo rescued broke NFF

In my area, whenever I’m jogging – I’ll look at one MD that is jogging around and jog behind him. I will just say, ‘I’m the NFF president and we are in a dilemma, can I follow you to your house or can see you later?’ At a point, I will say Seyi, give me N5, 000 and for the first three months it was very tough before the glorious days started coming and that’s the coming of Aiteo.

And once they came in, they didn’t look back. As I speak to you Gernot Rohr has been paid to December 31, 2017. We have offered him a new two-year contract extension. All the details will be worked out by the legal committee and other relevant committee in the federation.

We want to keep him because assuming he won the World Cup, don’t you think that the German federation will want him? We don’t want to be like Arsenal that waited until the last minute to sign Mesut Ozil. We want to be like Barcelona that gave Lionel Messi a new deal with three years still left on his contract.

The combo with Akinwunmi and Dikko

It was a very tortuous journey and the first step we took was when I won election into the CAF Executive Committee. Seyi looked at me and said: “President, I told you – you have won and we are going to qualify for the World Cup. So, all the necessary politics off the field you must play. Everything Nigeria needs to qualify, you will do.”

Another thing that came to mind is when Shehu said to me: “President, we must look for money. We must make sure we interface with the government where necessary and make sure we don’t owe the players anything. Forget that they earn huge salaries, they have families, they have responsibilities in Nigeria – they see what is going on and don’t want to be part of failure after their playing days, so we must encourage them.”

Of course, we interfaced with the government and thankfully they responded and made sure we paid A-Z.

Young and gifted Super Eagles

Who do you think in the premier league is better than Odion Ighalo in attack or better than Victor Moses? During our friendly against Argentina, Sergio Aguero begged to be removed from the game, so we must always have absolute trust and confidence in our players.

The beauty about the Super Eagles is that they are more for the future than today. All our players revolve around 19-22 years. Look at our full backs, Ebuehi and Ola Aina, central: (William) Ekong and Leon (Balogun), look at our midfield and attack while people like Victor Osimhen are still coming. So, we have a rich future.

We have a team already and this is the German model Seyi designed for me years ago. The German model of not just having a Super Eagles of today but one for tomorrow.

Look at Cameroon and Cote d’Ivoire, they have just a team for team and that’s what affected them. So, we are also planning for the future. On the part of the federation, I’m not going to tell you that we are 100%, because we are not. I have my problem, the executive committee have their own problem, the secretariat has their problem – everybody has their own problem but because we have this problem, are you going to say every minute we should resign? So, I just want to crave your indulgence that we are out here, wanting to build, develop and strengthen football.


http://thenationonlineng.net/pinnick-untold-story-super-eagles-qualification-russia-2018/amp/
Oga Icon4s, I strongly believe you can sell your idea of Nigeria having a standing U21 team to serve as a test running platform for young or upcoming players to play for the Super Eagles.

With what I have read above coming from Mr. Pinnic, he should buy the idea.

[b][/b]
This Pinnic just de impress me.

The meal is getting sweeter.........
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by Mickael2(m): 4:57pm On May 03, 2018
forgiveness:


You mean the El sha and Dzeko's dives? grin

We were not acting in Nollywood yesterday, na. Na ball we dey play. grin

What do you say about the one Sane was pushed at the back? grin

You no see that one? grin

Liverpool acted the script well yesterday.


which one be El gini? I meant when Dzeko, clearly on side, raced through and rounded Karius only to be brought down and for some reason the ref said he was offside. Then when I think it was Pelligrini was putting the ball straight into the back of the net but for that their RB's hand which was a blatant penalty but then you no go see am na
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by ChrisKels: 5:30pm On May 03, 2018
andrew444:


Lol funny you,abeg no call Degea here nah,you dey embarass am ooo.Degea is the best keeper in the word, Allison and karius is not up to Terstegen level let alone Magician Degea?

Now u talking.
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by ChrisKels: 5:32pm On May 03, 2018
Mickael2:



I think you watched another game. did you see how his defenders always stayed on the blind side of Salah easily dispossessing him? don't you know it's the gk that directs that? how many chances did they concede and how many crosses did he spill? Maybe you should go and watch his other games to have a proper insight as to how good he is.

Did u witness the destruction of Rome in mersyside? What excuse av u for Alisson's shortcomings in that match?
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by BascoVanVeli(m): 5:46pm On May 03, 2018
andrew444:


Karius is not good as you think,not even among top 4 German keepers,yet to be considered at the national team,somebody say dem no dey catch goal and that's true,liverpool defence is something to be worried of,and yes Allison is also overhyped as you say,not as good as we think

Tbh don't know any other German goalkeepers except Neuer and Ter Stegen
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by andrew444(m): 5:51pm On May 03, 2018
BascoVanVeli:


Tbh don't know any other German goalkeepers except Neuer and Ter Stegen

Kevin trapp PSG first choice goal keeper

Brand Leno, Bayern Leverkusen first choice,this 2 keepers are ahead of karius,karius is yet to be called up for Germany.

2 Likes

Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by tbaba1234: 6:08pm On May 03, 2018
Chidera Ezeh is back from injury and started the last game for Porto B as a striker.

Musa Yahaya continued as a right back.

Porto B won the game 1:0.

1 Like

Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by elyte89: 6:31pm On May 03, 2018
andrew444:


Kevin trapp PSG first choice goal keeper

Brand Leno, Bayern Leverkusen first choice,this 2 keepers are ahead of karius,karius is yet to be called up for Germany.


Aw can a country be so blessed with abundant talent in d gk dept wyle we re struggling with "mediocres" Uzoho,akpeyi,alampasu...c dier names sef grin grin
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by Humility017(m): 6:38pm On May 03, 2018
MetalJigsaw:
Echiejile: I’m Focusing On World Cup, Not New Deal With Cercle Brugge
3 May 2, 2018

Elderson Echiejile says that is not thinking about signing a contract extension with Cercle Brugge, but concentrating on being in great form to make Super Eagles final squad to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Echiejile’s six-month loan deal at the Belgian club expires this summer, and he has an offer to extend his stay at the newly promoted top division side, Completesportsnigeria.com gathered.

Cercle Brugge defeated Beerschot Wilrijk 3-1 in March to seal their return to the elite division after three years.

“The World Cup is around the corner and we’ll see what happens next,” Echiejile told Completesportsnigeria.com.

“I haven’t thought about it yet; I have another a year contract with Monaco and I am very happy. I just think about the end of the season and to stay in good shape and form for the World Cup.”

Echiejile played for Turkish side Sivasspor at the start of the 2017/18 season before joining Cercle Brugge in January in search of regular football.

The left-back who missed out on the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil due to injury, has made 53 international appearances for the Super Eagles and scored twice.



https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/echiejile-im-focusing-on-world-cup-not-new-deal-with-cercle-brugge/
and who told him...he will be at the world cup?

1 Like

Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by Humility017(m): 6:39pm On May 03, 2018
MetalJigsaw:
Echiejile: I’m Focusing On World Cup, Not New Deal With Cercle Brugge
3 May 2, 2018

Elderson Echiejile says that is not thinking about signing a contract extension with Cercle Brugge, but concentrating on being in great form to make Super Eagles final squad to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Echiejile’s six-month loan deal at the Belgian club expires this summer, and he has an offer to extend his stay at the newly promoted top division side, Completesportsnigeria.com gathered.

Cercle Brugge defeated Beerschot Wilrijk 3-1 in March to seal their return to the elite division after three years.

“The World Cup is around the corner and we’ll see what happens next,” Echiejile told Completesportsnigeria.com.

“I haven’t thought about it yet; I have another a year contract with Monaco and I am very happy. I just think about the end of the season and to stay in good shape and form for the World Cup.”

Echiejile played for Turkish side Sivasspor at the start of the 2017/18 season before joining Cercle Brugge in January in search of regular football.

The left-back who missed out on the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil due to injury, has made 53 international appearances for the Super Eagles and scored twice.



https://www.completesportsnigeria.com/echiejile-im-focusing-on-world-cup-not-new-deal-with-cercle-brugge/
and who told him...he will be at the world cup?
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by forgiveness: 6:41pm On May 03, 2018
Mickael2:



which one be El gini? I meant when Dzeko, clearly on side, raced through and rounded Karius only to be brought down and for some reason the ref said he was offside. Then when I think it was Pelligrini was putting the ball straight into the back of the net but for that their RB's hand which was a blatant penalty but then you no go see am na

Before nko! grin
Re: "The Super Eagles Thread: The Road To AFCON 2023, 2025 And 2026 World Cup by BascoVanVeli(m): 6:54pm On May 03, 2018
andrew444:


Kevin trapp PSG first choice goal keeper

Brand Leno, Bayern Leverkusen first choice,this 2 keepers are ahead of karius,karius is yet to be called up for Germany.


Trapp has not been the number one this season and nobody knows Leno outside Germany. I am sure Karius will be getting a look in sooner or later with Germany.

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