Nigerian Ambassador to Spain, Amb Bainca Olivia Odimegwu Ojukwu has charged the Super Eagles of Nigeria to go all out for victory against Catalonia in today friendly match. Coach Stephen Keshi led squad is using the game to fine-tune their preparation for the forthcoming Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa.
Addressing the team at their hotel, Fira Palace situated at the heart of Barcelona, the window of late Odimegwo Ojukwu, represented by Mr Olaniyan described the national team as the higher grade of ambassadors of Nigeria and urged the players to go all out and do the country proud in the friendly against Catalonia and at the upcoming Nations Cup in South Africa.
She said she was aware that the government of President Goodluck Jonathan was solidly behind the team to achieve success in South Africa as football is a major unifying force in the country.
The team coach, Stephen Keshi, who was humbled by the kind words of the ambassador, assured that the Super Eagles will do all within their powers to defend the green white green colours of the nation at all times. “We promise never to let the confidence and trust of the nation down at all times”, he said.
Meanwhile the Real Betis of Spain midfielder, Nosa Igiebor and Villareal striker, Ikechukwu Uche, yesterday joined the rest of the squad in Barcelona ahead of today international friendly against Catalonia selected side. Rabiu Ibrahim of Celtics was also part of the party that joined the Eagles for the only training session yesterday before the match.
According to team’s media officer, Ben Alaiya, Officials of the Nigerian Embassy in Spain led by Head of Chancery, Mr Safiu Olaniyan, Deputy Consul General, Mr. Nze Nnadi, Curtis Aghedo, who is President Nigerian Union in Barcelona, Kingsley Lawal, President Nigerians in Valles and Gbenga Adegoke Scribe of Nigerians in Valles, were on hand to receive the team on their arrivers at the magnificent Barcelona International Airport. There were also about 20 Nigerian football supporters who were at the airport to bid the team welcome.
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