We look at seven players who are expected to play big roles for the home-based Super Eagles at the African Nations Championship (CHAN) in Morocco starting at the weekend.
Anthony Okpotu: All eyes will be on the Lobi Stars striker to deliver the goods for the Home Eagles in Morocco. Okpotu demonstrated his predatory instincts with two superb goals in the final of the Nigeria Professional Football League invitational tournament against MFM FC. ‘The Panther’ as the experienced forward is called by his admirers scored 19 goals for Lobi Stars to emerge top scorer in the NPFL last season.
Ikechukwu Ezenwa: The team’s first choice goalkeeper demonstrated his importance to the team with a crucial penalty kick save in the qualifier against Benin Republic. The Enyimba goalie who is also the team’s captain has a big chance to prove he is good enough to man the post for the main Super Eagles side at the World Cup in Russia.
Kalu Orji: One of the four members of the current team that were part of the Home Eagles side that took part at the last edition in Rwanda 2016. The experienced centre-back, barring any unforeseen circumstances, is assured of a place in the starting eleven and much will be expected of him to keep the defence tight.
Rabiu Ali: Rabiu Ali is the only surviving member of the home-based Super Eagles team that came third on their debut appearance in the competition four years ago in South Africa. ‘Pele’ shone in the qualifiers and the WAFU Nations Cup in Ghana last year where he was picked in the team of the tournament. Much will be expected from the Kano Pillars star who will anchor the team’s midfield.
Ifeanyi Ifeanyi: A consistent performer for the team all through qualifiers and the WAFU Nations Cup. He has a perfect understanding with Rabiu Ali. How well the two midfielders perform may determine how far the team will go in the competition.
Sunday Faleye: The young forward distinguished himself during the NPFL invitational tournament in Kano. The forward, a product of Nigeria Nationwide League two outfit; Freestan FC, is well respected among his teammates due to his dribbling ability. The competition provides a big opportunity for him to show his class and quality on a bigger stage.
Osas Okoro: The versatile right-back who can also play as winger. One of the most experienced members of the team. He was also part of the team to Rwanda 2016.
