The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has urged Nigeria’s Super Eagles B, to avoid complacency in this weekend CHAN 2024 qualifiers against Ghana, Sports247 reports.
Olopade emphasized the importance of capitalizing on home advantage and urged the players to remain disciplined, determined, and tactical throughout the match against Black Galaxies of Ghana at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium Uyo, Akwa United.
“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 said.
The first leg of the African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifier ended in a goalless draw in Ghana, leaving everything to play for in the return leg in Uyo.
The winner of the match will secure a ticket to the 8th African Nations Championship, which will be hosted in Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya.
Hon. Olopade reminded the team of the bitter experience Nigeria endured during the Qatar 2022 World Cup qualifiers, where the Super Eagles failed to qualify after a goalless draw in Ghana was followed by a home defeat in Abuja.
“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, composed of players based in Nigeria, will have the support of the home fans in Uyo, who are expected to cheer the team to victory.