As Nigerians continue to grief over the exit of the Super Eagles in
the ongoing Russia 2018 World cup, the Nigeria Pillar of Sports, Chief
Donatus Agu Ejidike (J.P) has hailed the players for their dedication
and patriotism but called for fortification of the national team.
Ejidike in a statement noted that football at international level is about managing intrigues and politics, which the Nigeria football ruling body and the technical
managers, as well as the players, should be cautious about.
Nigeria lost many begging chances during the game which according to Ejidike, was responsible for the defeat to a beatable Argentina.
“The coach must build a stronger team, he must bring in players that will deliver at any slightest opportunity. We must also look beyond now and build a virile squad that will win the African Cup of Nations as well as make a remarkable impact in the next World Cup in the year 2022,” he stated.
The sports philanthropist emphasised that we should analyze critically
Super Eagles performance and come up with technical report that will
help to rebuild the team. Adding that inconsistency and the age long
fire brigade approach also reflected in the performance of the team in
the mundial. ” We must not wait till few months to major tournaments
before we start preparations. A detailed and unbiased technical report
will put the NFF in a good stead to improve on the fortunes of the
game in the country,” Ejidike said.
The World Cup, in the words of Ejidike, is not a jamboree where many who have nothing to contribute to the performance of the team will hang on government to be part of the contingent.
Ejidike said if Nigeria could win the U-17 World Cup and make remarkable impact in U-20 World Cup, then nothing should hinder the nation to produce a senior world cup winning squad.