The Federal Government has pledged to host a grand reception in Abuja for the Super Eagles, promising adequate rewards for their remarkable performance at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), set to conclude on Sunday in Abidjan, Cote d’Ivoire.
Following Nigeria’s thrilling 4-2 victory on penalties against South Africa in the semifinals in Bouake, Vice President Kashim Shettima, accompanied by Governors Dapo Abiodun (Ogun) and Duoye Diri (Bayelsa), Minister for Youth Dr. Jamila Ibrahim, oil magnate Wale Tinubu, FIFA Council Member Amaju Pinnick, and NFF President Ibrahim Gusau, expressed pride in the team’s achievements during a visit to their dressing room. Shettima assured the players and officials of a warm reception upon their return from the championship.
Meanwhile, Super Eagles’ Manager Jose Peseiro has cast doubts on the fitness of Porto defender Zaidu Sanusi for the final match against hosts Cote d’Ivoire on Sunday.
Zaidu, who missed the semifinal due to an injury sustained in the quarterfinal against Angola, remains uncertain for the final. Peseiro expressed hope for his recovery but acknowledged his absence from recent training sessions due to the injury.
Regarding Kelechi Iheanacho’s absence, Peseiro clarified that the Leicester City star, who scored the winning penalty against South Africa, has been dealing with injury concerns and suggested his limited playing time was a precautionary measure.
While reports of a supposed rift between Iheanacho and Peseiro surfaced, the coach attributed his absence from a pre-match press conference to his injury recovery process, emphasizing the team’s priority on player welfare and fitness.