Eagles not going to Russia as spectators but Contenders —— Sports Minister …..their victory against Argentina says it all

Eagles not going to Russia as spectators but Contenders —— Sports Minister

…..their victory against Argentina says it all

Zainab Tanimu –Kaduna

The Federal Government says the Super Eagles are in a high spirit for the 2018 FIFA World Cup and will make Nigeria proud.

Sports Minister Solomon Dalung said this after officially informing the Federal Executive Council that Nigeria had qualified for the tournament taking place in Russia.

According to him, the Nigeria’s driving philosophy for the competition is that the Eagles are not going to Russia as spectators, but as contenders.

The minister said the world should watch out for the new Nigerian soccer, priding that Nigeria, in a friendly match on Tuesday, defeated Argentina which, he affirmed, is one of the highly ranked football associations.

“So, we engage the team to test, and from the outcome of what happened on Tuesday, there is no doubt that Nigeria has made a statement. The joy of it all is that there is a unity of purpose among the administrators, our players are in high spirit and they are prepared to make Nigeria proud.”

Dalung said but for the consensus of all stakeholders in the Nigeria’s football family, the Eagles’ victory against Argentina could not have been possible.

“When I talk about stakeholders, I am looking at football fans, I am looking at the media, the private sector, the government, partners and the promoters.

“But we will continue to work hard to make this country proud. If we enjoy this type of support, I want to assure Nigerians that trophy will be heading towards the greatest economy in Africa, the giant of Africa, Nigeria,” the minister stated.