Former Kano Pillars Chairman, Alhaji Abba Yola has commended the CHAN Eagles for qualification to the 2018 Championship and warned that the match against Cameroon in Uyo is vital for Nigeria’s qualification to Russia 2018 World Cup.
The CHAN Eagles who saw off Benin Republic 2-0 in the CHAN qualifiers last Saturday thanks to Rabiu Ali and Kingsley Eduwo goals, will reassemble to prosecute the WAFU Championship coming up in September.
However, Alhaji Abba Yola has commended the team for their impressive performance and urge the coaches to fix the loopholes in the team ahead of the WAFU Championship next month.
“They did very well in the qualifiers and deserve commendation but that’s not the end, it has not even started considering we still have the Championship to play next year. Prior to the Championship, we need to tighten our belt and ensure we fix all the areas that the Salisu-led team are found wanting. For the upcoming WAFU Championship, which is back after being on hold for years, we can’t really determine the strength of teams that will participate, but judging from the performance of the qualifiers, we have a chance provided we fix all the areas needed to”.
The former director of the National Sports Commission (NSC) also spoke to Sportlens360 about the chances of the Super Eagles against Cameroon in the World Cup qualifiers.
“It is a bit difficult for me to predict anything out of the Cameroon game, because Cameroon have been on top of their game in recent times, likewise Nigeria with little bumps here and there, but one can easily assume the position of a senior citizen and a patriot by saying we should do all we can not to lose to Cameroon in Uyo”.
The Super Eagles will face Cameroon in Uyo on September 1, before settling it in Yaounde, three days after in the World Cup qualifiers.
Abba Yola also praised the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for its role in ensuring the team get maximum points against Cameroon.
“I’m happy the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) are leaving no stones unturned in ensuring that Nigeria win that match in Uyo and Yaounde. We need a convincing win like 3-0 or more in Uyo, then make sure we don’t lose in Yaounde. I wish the Super Eagles the best of luck in the task ahead”.
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