24th June, 2011
Nigeria’s U-23 Eagles are battle ready for their counterparts from Ghana, as both teams clash in an All Africa Games qualifier scheduled for 4p.m at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin, Edo State tomorrow.
There is no doubt that the rivalry between the two West African nations will be rekindled in the encounter judging from the pedigrees of the two countries in African football.
A victory for any of the teams would boost their chances of securing a ticket to play at the All Africa Games in Maputo, Mozambique in September.
P.M.Sports learnt early today that the Nigerian camp in the ancient city of Benin is bubbling and the players are in high spirits ahead of the crucial match.
The number of Dream Team V players in camp yesterday increased to 22 following the return of AC Milan midfielder, Nnamdi Oduamadi and new entrant from Israeli club, Sakhnin, Agboola Babalola.
Babalola has been called up to replace Nurudeen Orelesi, whose return to the team has been delayed by his attempt to join a club in Albania’s topflight. An elated Babalola who just received his first call up to the national team expressed excitement with the chance of putting on the Nigerian colours.
“I am glad to be here. I have been looking forward to an opportunity to play for my fatherland. Now that I have found it in the Dream Team V, I will put in my best if given a starting shirt by the coach,†he said.
Ghanaian team, who hit Nigeria yesterday are expected to have their first training session this evening.
—Adebobola Alawode
