As Nigeria Super Eagles struggle to qualify from group F after playing a draw with Iran in their first match, Nigerian soccer stakeholders comment on their expectations of the Eagles chance of progressing to the next stage.
For Chief Ernest Elochukwu, this is how he reacts, “oh yes, the Super Eagles stand a chance of qualifying in the group stage despite 0-0 draw with Iran.
According to Chief Elochukwu, who was one time captain of the Tennis section of Port Harcourt club 1928, “It’s a known pattern of the Eagles that they get better with each game, as they appear to get into rhythm after the initial sluggish start in any competition.
He added that “Keshi is a tactician who knows how to adjust his boys to the situation as it unfolds.
He also gave reason why the Eagles were unable to score the Iranians, “Iran played a very difficult game as they never left their base really, hence it was not possible for the Eagles to penetrate. The pattern of the Iranians forced the Eagles into making long thrusts which were not ending fruitfully.”
“It was as if they (Iranians) were not interested in winning but to get a draw and it was frustrating for the Eagles, hoping that, the remaining two teams whom the Eagles will play are known to be aggressive and adventurous hence would provide scoring opportunities for them”.
For the chairman of crystal Allstars football club of Port Harcourt, Engr. Miyene Ibiye Princely Senibo, he said, “in football nothing is impossible though our chances are slim now. I expect a better match against Bosnia, possibly a victory for us but we will certainly play better”.
For Barrister Karibi George, the Public Relation Officer of the Nigeria Football Supporter Club, he said, “group F which has the Super Eagles is still quite open. Who progresses to the knockout stage may not be known till the last round of matches”.
Felix Olisa is the chairman of Allstars football club of Obio/Akpor, said confidentially, that, the Eagles will hopefully qualify. “Yes they will qualify hopefully, our match against Bosnia will be a determinant factor and beating them is not impossible”.
The dice is cast for the Eagles to progress or gamble their chances as Nigerians have resorted into prayers and fasting for the Eagles to progress in the World Cup. ###
