Super Eagles gaffer, Samson Siasia has declared war against Madagascar senior national team for the all important African Cup of Nations qualifier on September 4, in Antananarivo.? To this end, the dark skin coach has invited his 25 best for the crucial encounter between his team and their Madagascan counterparts.
He said he has no option than to beat Madagascar if he must qualify Nigeria for the biannual showpiece in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea next year. Unveiling the 25-man squad for the must-win game and the much publicised rematch against South American giants Argentina, in Bangladesh two days later, the silver medal Beijing Olympic winning coach said all invited players are to report to camp at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja on Monday, August 29.
He said the team will train in Abuja for two days before departing on a chartered flight to Antananarivo, Madagascar Wednesday afternoon, August 31. ” he said.
The Bayelsa born soccer tactician added that he is not concerned about Argentina friendly in Bangladesh. “The game in Antananarivo is my most priority because it is a must win game for me and the team. For Argentina’s match, it is just a friendly game and we have beaten them here in June this year. So, whatever happens there in Bangladesh I am not bothered. What bothers me now and I am committed to it is the Madagascar game. I have spoken to most of the players and they are all committed to the match in Madagascar because they want to go to the Nations Cup,” he stated.
Nigeria with 7 points is presently three points behind group leaders, Guinea and must beat Madagascar to keep Nations Cup hopes alive.
The Squad: Goalkeepers: Vincent Enyeama, Dele Aiyenugba, Chigozie Agbim
Defenders: Chibuzor Okonkwo, Elderson Echiejile, Joseph Yobo, Yusuf Ayila, Efe Ambrose, Dele Adeleye, Danny Shittu
Midfielders: Joel Obi, John Mikel Obi, Fengor Ogude, Kalu Uche, Nosa Igiebor, Solomon Okoronkwo, Ahmed Musa
Forwards: Obinna Nsofor, Victor Anichebe, Ike Uche, Osaze Odemwingie, Emmanuel Emenike, Peter Utaka, Chinedu Obasi, Brown Ideye .
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