Ibrahim Gusau gives verdict on Super Eagles’ Unity Cup triumph, Russia friendly

By Oluwadamilola Olaleye

President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau, has praised the Super Eagles for their performances at the recently concluded London Unity Cup and the international friendly against Russia in Moscow.

Led by interim coach Eric Chelle, the Super Eagles defeated Ghana’s Black Stars 2–1 in a lively semi-final encounter at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium on May 28. They then edged out Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz 5–4 on penalties after a 2–2 draw in the final three days later.

In their final match of the international break, Nigeria held Valery Karpin’s Russia to a 1–1 draw at the iconic Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow. Tolu Arokodare scored a second-half equaliser following an own goal by Semi Ajayi in the first half.

Speaking on the team’s overall performance during the international window, Gusau said he was impressed with the blend of experience and emerging talent.

“Apart from the regulars that we already know what they are capable of, the tournament in London afforded us the opportunity to see players like Benjamin Frederick, Felix Agu, Christantus Uche and Igoh Ogbu.

“We saw more of Cyriel Dessers. The home-based professionals (Papa Daniel Mustapha, Ifeanyi Onyebuchi, Collins Ogwueze) did not fare badly either,” he said.

Gusau also praised individual performances in the Russia friendly and noted the depth it adds to the squad ahead of World Cup qualifiers.

“In Russia, we saw more of Uche and we saw Tolu Arokodare score a poacher’s goal. Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye was also excellent on his return and captain Ekong held the defence unit well.

“Now, we have options in defence, midfield and the attack, and I am quite satisfied with the team’s output in the three matches,” he stated.

“Now, we have good options in all areas as we look ahead to the FIFA World Cup qualifying matches, and I am certain that the technical crew is happy with that,” Gusau added.