In anticipation of the upcoming AFCON qualifiers against Sao Tome and Principe, the Super Eagles camp will open in Uyo on Monday, September 4, Soccernet.ng reports.
The final 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying group match for Nigeria is slated for Sunday, September 10, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
Though the match holds little significance due to the confirmed qualification of Nigeria and Guinea Bissau as the group’s two qualified teams, the Super Eagles aim to conclude the qualifying series on a high note by securing a victory and topping the group.
Recalling the first leg of the qualifiers, the Super Eagles triumphed with an impressive 10-0 victory over Sao Tome and Principe on matchday two of the series.
Sao Tome and Principe currently occupy the bottom spot in the group, sharing it with Sierra Leone. The Super Eagles secured their AFCON qualification by overcoming Sierra Leone with a 3-2 victory in Lome on matchday five.
With the uncertainty surrounding the coaching crew of the Super Eagles due to Jose Peseiro’s contract expiration, the list of players for the forthcoming game has yet to be announced.
Reports suggest that the Nigeria Football Federation will appoint an interim coach for the game against Sao Tome and Principe.
The Technical Director, Austin Eguavoen, along with current assistants Salisu Yusuf and Finidi George, are named as potential candidates for the interim role.
This event will mark the return of the Super Eagles to the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, after an absence of several years. The facility notably hosted all the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification matches.
The Super Eagles’ preparation in Uyo and their subsequent match against Sao Tome and Principe will serve as a crucial aspect of their AFCON journey as they aim to lift the trophy for the first time since 2013.