Nigeria international, Odion Ighalo has admonished fellow countrymen to put the Super Eagles in their prayers as he would not be in Cameroon with them for the 2021 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) which started on Sunday.
The Super Eagles started their quest for a fourth AFCON crown when they traded tackles with the Pharaohs of Egypt on Tuesday at the Roumdé Adjia Stadium, Garoua.
The Al Shabab striker could not make the trip due to his club blocking his move to feature at the tournament having signed him when he had already retired from international football with Nigeria.
The 32-year-old was included in Austin Eguavoen’s 28-man squad, but the Saudi Arabian club confirmed last week that he would not be joining the squad as the invitation from the NFF arrived late.
The decision left Eguavoen with just 27 players after CAF denied his request to call in a replacement.
“Here is me wishing the Super Eagles all the best during the AFCON, I am sorry I cannot be there but I am supporting the boys all the way,” Ighalo said in a video posted on NFF TV.
“We need prayers from Nigerians and urge them to support the team. With their prayers and support the team would make Nigeria proud. We have enough talents in that team that can take us to the finals”
Credit: thenationonlineng.net
