How I picked 35-man CHAN team with 'no recommendations' - Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen

How I picked 35-man CHAN team with 'no recommendations' - Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 12:06 - 01.11.2024

Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen reveals his personal selection process for the 35-man CHAN team set to tackle rivals Ghana.

Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen has unveiled his selection process for the 35-man squad set to face Ghana in the upcoming African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers. 

The announcement comes amid criticism from fans and followers of the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), who expressed dissatisfaction with some of the players included in the list.

Among those called up were Remo Stars’ wing-back Ismail Sadiq, Kano Pillars’ forward Zikifilu Rabiu, and Enugu Rangers’ attacking midfielder Kazeem Ogunleye. 

Despite the mixed reactions, Eguavoen is confident in his choices and has explained the rationale behind his selections.

The CHAN Eagles in Abuja.

Speaking after the first training sessions in Abuja, Eguavoen emphasised his commitment to scouting talent across the league. 

“I visit league venues a lot, and we have coaches like Fidelis Ilechukwu and Daniel Ogunmodede who have seen many players,” he stated. 

Eguvoen says there's no recommendations for the team.
Eguvoen says there's no recommendations for the team.

He noted that he also consulted with coaches whose teams he was unable to watch live. 

“If you compare the list that I had with the ones they gave me, most of the players are on the same list. So, about recommendations? No, that’s not it,” he clarified.

The CHAN Eagles in Abuja.

The Super Eagles B team is currently preparing for a crucial two-legged tie against Ghana, known as the "Jollof Derby," scheduled for December 2024. 

The first leg will take place in Ghana between December 20 and 22, with the return leg in Nigeria from December 27 to 29. 

Super Eagles B head coach Augustine Eguavoen. || X

This matchup is particularly significant as it provides an opportunity for Nigeria to avenge their previous elimination by Ghana in the last CHAN qualifiers.

Eguavoen's squad will be crucial as they aim to secure a spot in next year's tournament, which will be co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. 

CHAN Eagles and their coaches.

The coach remains optimistic about shaping a competitive team despite the challenges of integrating players from various clubs into a cohesive unit.

With a mix of experienced players and fresh talent, the Super Eagles B are poised to make a strong statement in the upcoming qualifiers.

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