The Nigeria Football Federation has launched what it calls Operation Defeat Egypt as the Super Eagles prepare for the two-legged 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualification tie. The first leg is billed for March 25 in Kaduna.
The Vice-President of the NFF, Seyi Akinwunmi, told reporters in Lagos on Tuesday that the federation was determined to beat the Egyptians in Kaduna and in Cairo and as such would work extra hard to achieve that goal. He stated that the NFF had every reason to believe the target was achievable.
He said, “This is the present pre-occupation of the federation for now. This is no time for politicking or dwelling in the past. We are asking all Nigerians to join forces with the federation to defeat the visiting Egyptians.
“We have a singular objective now, which is to defeat Egypt in order to guarantee the Super Eagles a place at the next AFCON.’’
The Chairman of the Technical Committee of the federation, Mr. Chris Green, who was also present, said a list of players to make the squad would be unveiled in Abuja on Thursday. He said over 50 players have been in touch with the NFF concerning the crucial clash.
“The Technical Committee will ratify the list to be presented by the coaching crew. We do not have the luxury of time on our side,” Green said.
Green told reporters that caretaker coach, Samson Siasia, has been empowered along with his crew to go all out for the players to don the national colours for the match.
“He has been provided a car and other things he needs to perform well. He and his staff will be working directly with the Technical Director of the federation, Shaibu Amodu.”
He said a committee had since been working in Kaduna in a bid to ensure a hitch-free match. He told journalists the committee was working in every aspect concerning the venue of the game to ensure things ran smoothly.
The second leg would hold in Cairo on March 29. Egypt currently tops Group G with six points from two matches, followed by Nigeria with four points from same number of matches.
Nigeria started the campaign with a win over Chad in Kaduna but managed a goalless outing in Dar es Salaam against Tanzania.
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