Super Eagles Set To Fly

Nigeria’s Super Eagles play their first international since the MTN Africa Cup of Nations in February when they host neighbours Niger in their first qualifier for the 2008 tournament in Abuja.

Coach Augustine Eguavoen called up a strong squad for what is expected to be an easy tie, a decision, which has attracted a surprising amount of criticism.

“I know nothing about our opponents, Niger and I wouldn’t want to take any risks,” Eguavoen said in reaction.

Nwankwo Kanu is doubtful for the match after coming u an injury in action for Portsmouth in the English league last week but there will still be a bevy of

stars at the disposal of the coach.

Also out of the game is Obafemi Martins, Chidi Odiah and Austin Okocha, who was hoping to come out of international retirement.

“Our players should be able to win the match. We need our strong players,” added Eguavoen.

Nigeria’s last game was in the third place play off match against Senegal.

Niger have been training in Benin before heading to Abuja but it will be the first game for them since the start of the 2006 World Cup qualifiers some three years ago.