Gusau (with the Unity Cup trophy), shares the euphoria with Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko (right) and Coach Eric Chelle (second from right).

By Ayodeji Babatunde

President of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Alhaji Ibrahim Musa Gusau (MON), has expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the Super Eagles’ participation in the recent international engagements, including the Four-Nation Unity Cup in London and a high-profile friendly against Russia in Moscow.

Speaking on the performances, Gusau said the Federation’s primary objective was to give the national team coaching crew an opportunity to assess potential additions to the squad, a goal he confirmed was fully achieved.

“Our key focus was to create a platform for the coaches to evaluate new players who can strengthen the team in the future, and I’m pleased we met that target,” Gusau stated. “I spoke with Coach Eric Chelle, and he was equally impressed with what the tournament in London and the match in Moscow offered.”

Reflecting on the Unity Cup, which saw Nigeria triumph over Ghana and Jamaica, as well as the spirited draw against Russia, Gusau highlighted several standout performers. According to him, the fixtures provided valuable exposure for both established and emerging players in the squad.

“In addition to our regulars, we had the chance to take a closer look at players like Benjamin Frederick, Felix Agu, Christantus Uche, and Igoh Ogbu. Cyriel Dessers also got more playing time, and our home-based players — Papa Daniel Mustapha, Ifeanyi Onyebuchi, and Collins Ogwueze — showed promise,” he noted.

Gusau also praised individual efforts during the friendly in Moscow, singling out Tolu Arokodare’s well-taken goal, goalkeeper Maduka Okoye’s commanding return, and captain William Troost-Ekong’s leadership at the back.

“With what we’ve seen, I’m confident that we now have strong options across defence, midfield, and attack. The technical crew will be pleased with the depth available going into the World Cup qualifiers,” he added.

Nigeria booked their place in the Unity Cup final by edging Ghana 2-1 at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium on May 28, before clinching the trophy with a dramatic 5-4 penalty shootout win over Jamaica after a 2-2 stalemate.

In the Moscow encounter against Russia at the Luzhniki Stadium, Nigeria fought back from an own goal by Semi Ajayi, with Arokodare’s second-half strike earning a deserved draw for the Super Eagles.

Looking ahead, Gusau expressed optimism about the team’s readiness for upcoming competitive fixtures, with confidence that the recent games have laid a strong foundation for success.

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