BY Calvin Emeka Onwuka
The Super Eagles will depart their Hilton Cobham hotel in Surrey, UK, for Philadelphia, US, on Thursday for the second phase of their World Cup preparations.
The team played a 2-2 draw with Gordon Strachan’s Scotland at Fulham’s Craven Cottage on Wednesday.
Coach Stephen Keshi had sent out an experimental side that seemed overawed by the occasion at the start but as the game wore on they improved and were worth their draw in the end.
Speaking to the press at the end of the game, most of the players were happier for the work-out.
Goalkeeper Austin Ejide said “the result was not the most important thing to us. Most of us had stopped playing a few weeks ago and returned to training only on the 26th of May, so we are very pleased that we have seen some match action. We move on to the US for more preparations.”
The returning Osaze Odemwingie got the biggest ovation from the Nigerian fans on the night and his introduction in the second-half markedly improved Nigeria’s play.
He was delighted to be back playing for Nigeria again.
“I am very happy to be wearing the national colours again. I am also aware of the fact that as African Champions, we will be going to the world cup under some sort of pressure to defend the continent. We are capable. We will be ready. Stephen Keshi the Boss will make sure of that,” he said.
Youngster Ramon Azeez who did not feature in the match was “just very pleased to be invited in the 30 man list. It is a thing of great honour for me”.
On how he has been received by the senior players, he said: “Well, this Super Eagles is a family. I can’t describe them in any other way for the kind of love I have been shown since I arrived. I am just happy to be among them.”
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