‘We call it slot’ – Pinnick on his role in Musa’s 2018 World Cup heroics

Former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) president, Amaju Pinnick, has revealed the pivotal role he played in ensuring Ahmed Musa’s inclusion in Nigeria’s 2018 FIFA World Cup squad despite concerns over his lack of playing time at Leicester City, Soccernet.ng reports.

The then-26-year-old forward struggled for game time with Leicester City ahead of the World Cup in Russia, raising doubts about his place in the national team.

However, Musa went on to deliver a remarkable performance, scoring a brace in Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Iceland, the Super Eagles’ only goals at the tournament.

Pinnick Shares His Impact on Nigerian Football

Speaking during the CAF Awards ceremony, where Ademola Lookman was crowned the 2024 African Player of the Year, Pinnick recounted how he facilitated Lookman’s switch to represent Nigeria. He then delved into Musa’s story, emphasizing the influence he wielded during his tenure as NFF president.

“When I was in the NFF, I recall when [Ahmed] Musa was about to be dropped from the squad two or three matches before the World Cup because he wasn’t playing for Leicester [City]. There were a lot of issues,” Pinnick told Ojora Babatunde.

“I don’t usually intervene, but I called the coach and said, ‘Musa must go for this game—one of the international friendly games.’ The coach asked why, and I said, ‘In Delta, we call it slot. Just let him be the 24th player.’ Guess what? Musa ended up being the hero in 2018.”

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Pinnick’s insistence ensured that Musa, despite his struggles at club level, donned the Super Eagles jersey at the World Cup and delivered a memorable performance.

Musa’s Current Role in the Super Eagles

Musa’s place in the current Super Eagles squad has been a subject of debate. The former CSKA Moscow forward last featured for Nigeria during a friendly against Guinea just before the 2023 AFCON.

However, under coach José Peseiro, Musa did not play a single minute at the tournament, raising questions about his future with the team amid competition from a younger generation of players.

Musa’s Return to Kano Pillars

In October, Musa returned to the Nigeria Premier Football League with Kano Pillars, where he began his professional career. The 31-year-old has been in fine form, scoring five goals and providing two assists in 10 appearances, proving he still has much to offer on the pitch.

While his national team future remains uncertain, Musa’s exploits for Kano Pillars highlight his enduring quality and influence in Nigerian football.