Super Eagles Team B head into their CHAN qualifiers against Ghana armed with players from 11 NPFL clubs, a diversity interim coach Daniel Ogunmodede calls crucial for success.
Super Eagles interim assistant coach Daniel Ogunmodede has described the confluence of Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) stars in Nigeria’s CAF African Nations Championship (CHAN) squad as a positive influence that strengthens the squad’s dynamics.
The Super Eagles Team B coaching crew initially invited 30 NPFL players for the double-edged CHAN qualifiers against arch-rivals Ghana. Camped at the Remo Stars Sports Institute in Ikenne, the squad was eventually trimmed to 18 players ahead of the first leg on Sunday, December 22, at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Reacting to the makeup of the final 18-man squad, which represents 11 NPFL clubs, Ogunmodede told CAF Online, “The inclusion of players from various clubs has positively influenced the squad’s dynamics and chemistry. It has brought together a diverse group of talented individuals, each contributing unique skill sets and experiences. This diversity fosters unity, enhances adaptability, and strengthens our collective performance on the field.”
Ghana has historically been a thorn in Nigeria’s CHAN campaigns, eliminating them in 2009 and 2023 qualifiers. While the Black Stars B seeks to assert dominance once again, Ogunmodede noted that the rivalry between both sides is enough to ignite Nigeria’s determination.
“Embracing the rivalry as motivation rather than anxiety is central to our approach,’’ the Remo Stars coach stated.
“Managing the pressure and expectations surrounding such a high-stakes game against our intense rivals is a key focus. We emphasise mental fortitude, maintaining a clear focus on our game plan, and instilling confidence in the players to perform at their best.”
The final squad released on Friday features NPFL legend Rabiu Ali, along with Remo Stars’s Sodiq Ismail, Junior Nduka, Sikiru Alimi, and Jide Fatokun. Rangers International duo Ifeanyi Onyebucci and Saviour Isaac also made the cut, alongside 11 other top performers from NPFL clubs.
Explaining the selection process, Ogunmodede added, “Selecting the final squad has been a challenging process due to the pool of talented players available. We evaluate players based on form, fitness levels, recent club performances, and tactical suitability. Positional requirements and team balance are also crucial in ensuring we have the best lineup for success.”
Following the first leg in Ghana on Sunday, the Super Eagles Team B will host their neighbours at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on Saturday, December 28. The ultimate winner of this clash will secure a spot at the 2025 CHAN, co-hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda from February 1 to 28, 2025.
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