The Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, has urged the Super Eagles of Nigeria to
make a lasting impression as they prepare for a crucial clash against Ivory Coast in their second group game at the African Cup of Nations by winning the crucial match.
The Minister who made the call on Thursday in his office in Abuja, urged the team to make amends for Sunday’s 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea by securing a victory against their host.
A statement by the director of Press and public relations Muhammed Manga quoted
Senator Enoh to have given the indication that
Thursday’s game is an opportunity for the Nigerian team to make a statement by going ahead to feast on the Elephants in their backyard.
“I am urging the Super Eagles to remain resolute, as we will be playing against 11 players on the pitch, the home fans, and even the weather. We must be mentally superior for the entire duration of the game, as we need to secure a victory to boost our chances of advancing to the next round” he said
He stated further that the government and people of Nigeria are behind the Super Eagles who have always been a source of pride for our nation.
“I call upon each player to give his best on the field and make a lasting impression.”
The Minister, however, observed that “winning the second game against Ivory Coast is not just a victory for the team but a statement of our football prowess on the continent.”
Senator Enoh referenced the 2013 victory en route Nigeria’s march to winning the AFCON in South Africa. He said Nigeria defeated the Ivorians when no one gave them a chance against a star-studded Ivorian team.
“We held our own down that night in South Africa, playing against the golden generation of ivorian football to claim a sweet 2-1 victory in the quarterfinal. If we did it ten years ago, then let’s do it again” the minister said
While calling on Nigerians to pray for the Super Eagles’ success at the games, the Minister extended his best wishes to the coaching staff, support personnel, and the entire Nigerian football community