Ex-internationals have advised the Nigerian Football Federation to focus on preparing the team for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifications, which begin in June, rather than dwelling on the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the Qatar 2022 World Cup, according to The PUNCH.
The Eagles were knocked out of the World Cup on the away goals rule after Ghana tied the three-time African champions 1-1 in Abuja on March 29. The first leg, which took place four days earlier in Kumasi, concluded in a 0-0 draw.
Former Eagles goalkeeper Ike Shorunmu believes the players must recommit to the team and ensure that such a setback does not occur again.
“I am certain that the Eagles will recover, but they will need to demonstrate fortitude to do so when the AFCON qualifiers begin.”
“I don’t think the NFF should still be obsessing about Nigeria’s inability to qualify for Qatar 2022 when we know that the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers will begin soon,” another ex-Eagles star Garba Lawal said.
“It’s unfortunate that the Eagles will not be competing in the World Cup, but we don’t have time to mourn over spilled milk.”
“The Eagles will be back in no time, and I’m confident the squad will make up for their mistakes.”
Ifeanyi Udeze, a former Eagles left-back, says the club needs to reorganize in order to succeed.
Eagles know their adversaries for the 2023 AFCON qualifiers on April 19 “The team needs to reorganize a little bit.” The team’s failure to qualify for the World Cup was regrettable, but it is now in the past. We need to put that behind us and focus on helping the Eagles succeed once more.
“With the AFCON qualifications starting soon, the boys and the NFF must get ready to avoid another setback.” When playing for the country, the players must exhibit character.”
The Eagles will know their group opponents in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualification series in Ivory Coast after the Confederation of African Football released the draws for the phase on Friday.
