Super Eagles’ 39-man squad generates more tricky reactions

Sodiq Adebara

 Football analysts have continued to react following the release of a provisional 39-man squad by Super Eagles coach, Éric Sékou Chelle, for the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.

Speaking with Radio Nigeria, veteran sports journalist Mr. Bayour Issah stated that the squad selection would be a key test of the coach’s technical capacity.

Issah who spoke from Ilorin acknowledged concerns over the omission of some notable names but described the squad as a balanced mix of world-class players and promising newcomers, making it suitable for the qualification campaign.

On his part, Kayode Alakija questioned the decision to invite the second-choice goalkeeper from Remo Stars Football Club when more experienced options are available in the Nigerian domestic league.

Alakija also expressed reservations about the inclusion of Ahmed Musa. However, he admitted that Musa’s experience could bring valuable leadership to the team.

He urged the coach to deploy all necessary strategies to ensure the Super Eagles win their remaining matches and secure qualification for the World Cup.

Currently, Nigeria sits fifth in Group C behind Rwanda, South Africa, Benin Republic, and Lesotho. The Super Eagles will face group leaders Amavubi of Rwanda in Kigali on Friday, March 21, before hosting Zimbabwe’s Warriors at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo four days later.