AFCON 2021: Super Eagles camp venue ‘changed’ to Abuja
Against an earlier report which suggests that the Super Eagles of Nigeria will be using Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo for camping ahead of the Nations Cup, the team will now begin their preparations for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)in Abuja.
The Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports Development Sunday Dare made the disclosure on Tuesday, while speaking on a TVC Sports programme in Lagos.
Dare stated that the Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and the Federal Capital Territory are collaborating to provide the Super Eagles with a conducive environment for the team as they prepare for the 33rd edition of AFCON in Cameroon.
He gave assurance that the team will better all expectations in Cameroon than their last outing in Egypt.
“I have no doubt that with the quality of the personnel(both players and coaches)in our team, we can go all the way in Cameroon. We finished third in Egypt the last time out, we can do even better this time around. We just have to develop confidence in ourselves and do the hard work on the pitch,” said the Minister.
Nigeria, had previously won the Afcon in 1980, 1994 and 2013. The Super Eagles were losing finalists in 1984, 1988, 1990, and 2000, and they will feature in Group D alongside Egypt, Guinea-Bissau, and Sudan. The West African giants will play the Pharaohs in their opener at Roumde Adjia Stadium on January 11.
While many expect Austin Eguavoen as the interim Coach to lead the team to the tournament, it was also learnt that the NFF might be changing the gear with the latest report suggesting the possible engagement of a Portuguese coach,Jose Paseiro as the new Manager of the team.
The NFF few weeks ago sacked Gernot Rohr as the Super Eagles coach and appointed Austin Eguavoen ,its Technical Director as the interim coach.
