Eagles Camp opens June 12 as Peseiro scouts NPFL Super Six Play-off for players

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has disclosed that Super Eagles camp will open on June 12 in Abuja ahead of the 2024 African Cup of Nations qualifier between Nigeria and the Lone Stars of Sierra Leone.

The match will hold on June 18 in Liberia because Confederation of African Football (CAF) did not find any stadium in Sierra Leone good enough for a game of such magnitude.

Speaking with The Guardian, yesterday, Super Eagles’ Team Coordinator, Patrick Pascal, said everything was being done to ensure Nigeria picks the three points, which would automatically qualify it for the African Cup of Nations.

“The game against Sierra Leone will be tough because they are also eager to qualify for the Nations Cup. “We are happy that most of the overseas-based players earmarked for the game are in good form for their various clubs.

“Although we are not underestimating any country because football is growing rapidly across the world, we are focused on winning the game and qualify for the 2024 AFCON,” he said. 

Pascal also added that the ongoing Nigerian Premier Football League Championship play-off in Lagos would aid the coaches’ bid to discover talented players in the local league.

Super Eagles Coach, Jose Peseiro, is a constant presence at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, venue of the championship.

“The NFF president has been working hard to improve the Nigerian League. With the Super Six, it will be possible for coaches to see the outstanding players in the Nigeria league because all teams and players are on a equal standing to prove their worth. The highest goal scorer of the league would be seen to deserve it, instead of awarding the award to a player that did not score a convincing goal during the main league.

“Viewing the game on television will also put the Nigerian league on the world map and ensure credible officiating,” he added.The Lone Stars of Sierra Leone will host the Super Eagles of Nigeria at the Samuel Kanyon Doe Stadium, Monrovia on Sunday, June 18.

Super Eagles top Group A of the qualifiers with nine points and need just a point from the game to secure a place in the Cote d’Ivoire 2024 list.

The John Keister-tutored Lone Stars are third in the group with five points and need a win to keep their qualification hopes alive.
Second-placed Guinea-Bissau will meet Sao Tome and Principe in the group’s other game.