Says the return leg against Liberia will favour the Eagles
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), on Wednesday, expressed confidence that the Super Eagles of Nigeria will qualify for next year?s African Cup of Nations finals to be hosted by South Africa, even after a 2-2 draw from Saturday?s qualifier against Liberia in Monrovia.
NFF President, Aminu Maigari, admitted that a win would have been better than Saturday?s Cup of Nations’ qualifier draw against the Lone Stars of Liberia in Monrovia. He, however, was confident that the return leg at the U. J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar on October 13, would settle all issues comfortably in Nigeria?s favour.
?The good thing is that the players and technical officials realize that was one match they should have won. I spoke with the Head Coach and the Captain and they both feel confident about the return leg,” he said.
?For the Nigeria Football Federation, our duty is to provide every support for the team to ensure it qualifies for the African Cup of Nations, and we will do that.
?I wish to use this opportunity to express heartfelt appreciation to His Excellency, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan (GCFR), for his very keen interest in the Super Eagles and other national teams. The President was physically present at the team?s training session before the trip to Monrovia, and expressed interest in being in South Africa for the Cup of Nations next year. The least the Eagles can do is work assiduously towards qualifying, in order that our President can be at the finals.?
Nigeria was expected to oil her powerful machine for a return to African football?s choice houseparty with a win in Monrovia, but an equaliser, conceded 24 minutes to the end, means the fixture with Liberia is still delicately poised ahead of the return leg in Calabar in four-and-half weeks.
Also speaking in Abuja on Wednesday, NFF General Secretary, Barrister Musa Amadu, said the Eagles would sail to South Africa.
?I am confident the Super Eagles will be one of the 16 teams in the pot for the Draw Ceremony on 26th October. I have no doubt about that. When we meet Liberia in Calabar for the second leg, it will be a different ball game.?
