NFF President, Amaju Pinnick appreciated every Nigerian who contributed in any way to the Super Eagles’ victory over Congo in Pointe Noire on Saturday. But sports –loving Governor Godswill Akpabio’s pledge of a ‘handsome reward’ did much to motivate the players before kick –off.
Akwa Ibom State’s number one man had called the NFF President to say he would reward the players and official for victory in the very crucial game, in which Nigeria needed a two –goal margin of victory to be in good stead for qualification going into the final round of matches.
The message was promptly relayed to the team in full and they left their Atlantic Hotel Palace highly inspired despite the scorching sun.
Ikechukwu Uche stroked home a penalty kick after strike partner Emmanuel Emenike was tripped in the box, and China –based Aaron Samuel delivered an intelligent chip from Mikel Obi’s solo run to give the Eagles just what they needed.
Governor Akpabio is chief host of Wednesday’s final qualifying match, in which the Super Eagles go up against the Bafana at the brand –new Akwa Ibom International Stadium.
The match will start at 5pm Nigeria time.
