13th October, 2013
Football fans and administrators have hailed the victory of Nigeria’s Super Eagles over the Ethiopia national team in their 2014 FIFA World Cup Qualifier in Addis Ababa.
They spoke in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) immediately after the Nigerian senior men football side defeated their hosts 2-1.
Harrison Okagbue, a former coach of the Ugandan national side, said the Super Eagles gave a good account of themselves as they were able to withstand the strong Ethiopians.
Okagbue however faulted the Eagles technical crew’s decision to employ space marking in the team’s defensive approach, saying “contact marking’’ would have been a better approach.
“I like what happened today. The match was alright, and we got the win which we most desire,’’ he said.
The coach however advised that the team’s handlers should prepare the players better for the Ethiopians.
“In our next match, we have to check their (the Walya Antelopes) energy by not giving them space to operate.
“If we employ contact marking, their power will reduce and our victory in Nigeria will be assured.
“However, I congratulate them (the Eagles) for doing us proud,’’ he said.
Victor Nwangu, a Match Commissioner with the Nigerian Football Association (NFA), said the ability to come from behind to clinch victory on away ground showed the team’s character and discipline.
He said while there were some questionable refereeing decisions during the match, the Nigerian players’ determination gave them victory.
Former national team goalkeeper, Emmanuel Okala, in his reaction said the result was a product of good preparation.
“It was a great match, and I saw it coming because they prepared well. The weather conditions did not affect them so much, as they are a good side.
“However, in their next match, coach Stephen Keshi should bring out the best boys in the team and seal victory in Calabar,’’ he said.