It has been reported that, despite the prevailing pessimism caused by the Home-based Eagles’ inability to progress beyond the group stage of the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN) in East Africa, a former president of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Amaju Pinnick, has encouraged Nigerians to remain optimistic, believing that there is light at the end of the tunnel.
”Our players require no distractions at this time. They need the support and prayers of all Nigerians,” the former FIFA Council Member stated to THISDAY.
Pinnick emphasized that in football and other sports, “Nigerians must learn to embody true sportsmanship by accepting defeat gracefully and celebrating victory while keeping the larger picture in mind.”
He further highlighted that the current football environment in the country does not need any negativity, especially as the Super Eagles prepare to compete for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the USA, Mexico, and Canada will host.
Currently, the Eagles are in fourth place in Group C of the African qualifiers, accumulating seven points from six matches. South Africa leads with 13 points, despite facing a potential three-point deduction for fielding an ineligible player, while both Rwanda and the Benin Republic are tied with eight points.
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However, with the World Cup qualifiers set to resume next month, where the Eagles will face Rwanda and South Africa, Pinnick insisted that the team’s most pressing need is the prayers of all Nigerians to succeed in winning these two matches, which would enhance their chances in the remaining two games later this year.
”We require positive energy surrounding the team, not negative sentiments stemming from the disappointing performance of the Super Eagles B team in CHAN. This positivity is crucial for our qualification for the next World Cup.”
Pinnick reminisced about a lengthy, encouraging conversation he had with Super Falcons Captain, Rasheedat Ajibade, just a day before the Super Falcons faced Morocco in the WAFCON final. “The Falcons needed such motivational discussions to boost their morale.”
