Soccer News of Wednesday, 14 February 2001

Source: Vanguard Daily

Disu Bets On Eagles Against Ghana

Former Technical Director of Nigeria Football Association (NFA), Tunde Disu (OFR), said Nigeria would beat Ghana for the only slot in Group B to qualify for next year's World Cup in Japan/South Korea.

Coach Disu, who has kept a low profile after the Nigeria '99 showdown x-rayed the Super Eagles build up to the global fiesta in an interview at the M.K.O. Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta on Saturday.

In Disu's opinion, the Eagles have an edge over Ghana's Black Stars based on their current psychological and technical situation.

"I think no team can stop the Eagles from what is happening in their group. Their closest rivals are the Black Stars of Ghana and they are having problems at the moment."

"Ghana's 3-1 loss to Liberia is a fact to say they are psychologically down, that is one advantage for the Eagles. Then, the Eagles have a near balanced team and technically favoured ahead of their Ghanaian rivals. So, nothing should stop Nigeria," Disu said.

The former Flying Eagles coach however warned that Nigeria should not underrate any team in their remaining qualifying matches.

"You know what happens when Nigeria wants to play other teams in Africa. They will want to upset the Eagles and if our players are serious, they will triumph. We are already coming out with a good tactical approach. The pair of Victor Agali and Nwakanwo Kanu will be an aggressive attacking strategy."

Also, the defence line is superb with Taribo West and the new boy, Isaac Okoronkwo in the centre.

What Godwin Okpara is doing in Eagles right back position is splendid while Ifeanyi Udeze and Babayaro are good at the other back. I think the team is complete with the likes of Okocha, Oliseh and Ikpeba in the midfield. Finidi and Lawal could run well in the wings too," he said.