Sanusi
The General Secretary of Nigeria Football Federation, Dr. Mohammed
Sanusi has praised Nigeria’s two representatives in this season’s African
club continental competitions, Lobi Stars of Makurdi and Rangers
International of Enugu for their efforts so far in their respective contests.
Lobi Stars prevailed over US Loum of Cameroon and Gor Mahia of Kenya
in the preliminary rounds of the CAF Champions League to reach the
money –spangled group stage, and have thus far won one (against
Mamelodi Sundowns of South Africa) and lost one (against ASEC Mimosas
of Cote d’Ivoire) of their two matches in the group stage, while looking
ahead to their tie against Morocco’s Wydad Athletic Club in the half way
mark of the stage.
Rangers International, featuring in the CAF Confederation Cup overcame
opposition from Ethiopia, Algeria and Lesotho to qualify for the group stage,
where they are now paired alongside Etoile Sahel FC, CS Sfaxien (both of
Tunisia) and Salitas FC of Burkina Faso.
“I want to commend the Clubs for their efforts so far in the continent. Both
Lobi Stars and Rangers International have been doing well and the NFF
and indeed Nigerian ball fans are proud of them.
“However, the road ahead is much rougher. Rangers will be playing two
experienced campaigners from Tunisia in the group stage, and we know
how tough a challenge the North African teams can pose. It means that
Rangers must raise their game against these two and against the
Burkinabes to reach the quarter finals.
“Lobi Stars put up a commendable performance in Abidjan against ASEC
Mimosas though they lost by the odd goal. Now, they must lift their morale
to pick the three points against Wydad Athletic Club of Morocco in order to
boost their chances of a place in the quarter finals.”
Sanusi believes the opportunity now presented to Lobi Stars to play in front
of their home fans, following the completion of the runway of the Makurdi
Airport, will invigorate the players to even better performance in
subsequent matches.
“Certainly, playing in front of their home fans will be bigger boost for the
Lobi Stars. I have confidence that they will go all the way in the
competition.
“Rangers International also have the capacity to overhaul the continent and
bring back memories of their African Cup Winners Cup triumph in 1977.”
