Daniel Ogunmodede, the stand-in Head Coach of the Super Eagles B team, has categorically ruled out any changes to the squad that secured a valuable 0-0 draw in the first leg of the 2024 CHAN qualifier against the Ghana Black Galaxies last weekend in Accra, Completesports.com reports.
As they prepare for the reverse fixture this evening in Uyo, Ogunmodede emphasised during Friday evening’s pre-match press conference at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, that the team’s current situation does not warrant experimentation.
“This is not the time to gamble,” Ogunmodede stated firmly when asked if there would be any alterations to the squad that held the Black Galaxies to a draw in the first leg. “Those who played in the first leg have already had their opportunity.
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“To be in this team at present is an opportunity. For me, as a coach, it’s an opportunity to lead this team. There are thousands of coaches out there, just as there are thousands of players waiting for their chance.
“Don’t forget, we’re on the brink of qualification. There’s no room for gambling. We’re sticking to our plan. We have a clear strategy for Saturday’s match, and nothing needs to be tested in this second leg. Perhaps during the tournament proper, we can explore other options.”
Ogunmodede acknowledged that the match will be challenging, given the rivalry between the two nations. Ghana denied Nigeria a spot in the 2022 CHAN finals in Algeria after a 5-4 penalty shootout win, following a 2-2 aggregate scoreline. Earlier in 2020, Togo eliminated Nigeria from the CHAN race with a 4-3 aggregate victory.
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“Ghana always approach games against Nigeria with a mindset focused on victory. Sometimes, things don’t always go your way.
“It won’t be easy because this is a game between two neighbours and fierce rivals. You don’t expect it to be a walk in the park,” Ogunmodede concluded.
By Sab Osuji, in Uyo
