President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau, says the Federation met its key objectives during the just-concluded Unity Cup Tournament in London and the friendly match against Russia in Moscow.
In a statement on Monday, Gusau said the events gave the Super Eagles coaching crew a perfect opportunity to assess new players and expand the team’s depth ahead of upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
“We achieved our sporting objectives, which was the most important thing,” Gusau said. “The idea was to create a platform for the coach and his team to evaluate fresh talent who could strengthen the squad.”
The Super Eagles claimed the Unity Cup title after edging Ghana 2–1 in the semi-final and beating Jamaica 5–4 on penalties following a 2–2 draw in the final. Days later, they held Russia to a 1–1 draw in a friendly played at the Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow.
Gusau, who was present at the games, noted that Coach Eric Chelle was pleased with the players’ performance. He highlighted the emergence of several new talents including Benjamin Frederick, Felix Agu, Christantus Uche, Igoh Ogbu and Cyriel Dessers.
“The home-based players—Papa Daniel Mustapha, Ifeanyi Onyebuchi, Collins Ogwueze—also gave a good account of themselves,” he added.
In the Russia match, Tolu Arokodare scored the equaliser for Nigeria after Semi Ajayi’s own goal had given the hosts the lead. Goalkeeper Maduka Okoye impressed on his return to the national team, while captain William Troost-Ekong led the backline effectively.
“Now, we have solid options across the defence, midfield and attack. I believe the technical crew is pleased with this development,” Gusau concluded.
The NFF president expressed optimism that the recent outings have provided a stronger foundation as the Super Eagles gear up for their World Cup qualification campaign.
