12th March, 2013
The Harambee Stars of Kenya can shock the Super Eagles of Nigeria, when both teams tango later this month in a Brazil 2014 World Cup qualifier at the U. J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar, erstwhile coach of both teams, Christian Chukwu has warned.
Chukwu, who was once skipper of the Eagles, warned the Nigerian team against underrating the East Africans because they will be out to prove a point by defeating the reigning African champions.
He advised Coach Stephen Keshi to field the best players at his disposal, adding that failure to do this may be counterproductive to Nigeria’s quest to qualify for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
“I would want to see players from the Nigerian Professional Football League, NPFL, in action against Kenya because it is African football and they have what it takes to win the match come 23 March,” he added.
Meanwhile, former Eagles’ captain, Nwankwo Kanu has called on the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF, to settle any misunderstanding between Keshi and Osaze Odemwingie, saying that the West Bromwich striker still have a lot to offer the national team.
“ Osaze is still a good player and his wealth of experience is still needed in the present Eagles,” he said.
—Adebobola Alawode & Bamidele Olowosagba