The Chairman National Sports Commission (NSC) Shehu Dikko has confirmed that the Super Eagles of Nigeria will play three friendly games in June as part of their preparation for the resumption of the world cup qualifiers in September.
Dikko made the announcement while speaking on the chances of the team qualifying for the world cup after the disappoinment of the 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in Uyo on Tuesday.
“Not the result Nigeria wanted and desperately craved. Football sometimes can be brutal as it’s still a rude shock that the Super Eagles dominated play for the entire 90 minutes of the match, created over 42 attacking play in the opponent box with over 10 clear and decent chances to score (which on a good day could have easily been goals) and gave very little opening to the opponents ended up drawing the match!
“Nonetheless, I (Shehu Dikko) must commend the (Super Eagles) players and the technical crew led by Eric Chelle for putting up a brilliant and determined performance as evident from the match statistics as they gave their all to win the match, but it was just not meant to be”, he said on a post he made on his verified social media handle.
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He went further to speak on the chances of the team making it to the world cup saying it’s well and truly alive, especially with the technical blunder committed by South Africa, where they fielded an ineligible player hence will face a three points deduction from FIFA.
“As regards the most important, immediate mission and objective to qualify to FIFA World Cup 2026, thankfully by the competition rules, technical situation, remaining fixture schedule, providence and indeed the points garnered, Nigeria is still firmly in play just like most other teams in the group.
“Winning the next 4 games would most likely see Nigeria through, based on the permutations and taking into cognizance the competition rules as well as FIFA disciplinary code. Thus, everything is still in play and the team will remain focused on the mission with eyes firmly on the ball until the very end”.
Rounding up his statement, he said the Super Eagles will make good use of the June window to play three friendly games to keep them in top gear for the remaining games of the qualifiers.
“In conclusion, with the training camp and 3 friendly Matches being planned for the team in June 2025 window, it would certainly provide a platform for the technical crew to reset, mould and perfect the team in preparation for the continuation of the qualifiers in September 2025 and the mission ahead.
“I must thank and specially appreciate the fans for the wonderful support in a united front and standing with the team throughout! All being equal the final outcome will surely repay the fans with the desired World Cup Ticket !”
Mohammed Mowiz Suleiman
