18th July, 2013
Chief Coach of the Super Eagles of Nigeria, Stephen Keshi has defended his 20-man list that would prosecute the 12 August annual Nelson Mandela Challenge against the Bafana Bafana of South Africa.
The former Hawks of Togo soccer tactician insisted that he selected the players for the clash billed for the Mabhida Stadium, Durban, South Africa, based on their current form.
Keshi, who once captained the team to clinch the Tunisia ’94 Nations Cup trophy, disclosed further that he decided to give a few players the chance to prove their mettle and also to create a healthy competition in the team.
“I have selected the players that I feel can do the country proud in South Africa, we are going to give any Nigerian player the opportunity to play in the team provided they are willing to play for the country.”
Meanwhile, member of the Technical Sub-Committee, Paul Bassey said the committee did not interfere or vet the list insisting that the list of invited players was drawn up by Keshi himself.
Tickets for the clash are now on sale. Tickets are selling for R50 and R100 and can be bought at Computicket, Shoprite, Checkers and Shoprite/Checkers outlets around the country.
SAFA l kicked off the Mandela Challenge celebrations with an activity on Mandela Day on Thursday, 18 to do their 67 minutes for the day.
—Adebobola Alawode