Posted by CHINEDU UKO on
FORMER African Footballer of the Year, Abedi Pele of Ghana, has warned Nigeria to keep an eye on the Angola and Rwanda to avoid falling victims of some costly intrigues that could deny the country ticket to Germany 2006.
FORMER African Footballer of the Year, Abedi Pele of Ghana, has warned Nigeria to keep an eye on the Angola and Rwanda to avoid falling victims of some costly intrigues that could deny the country ticket to Germany 2006.
He said although the Eagles look good to roast Zimbabwe in their last match, a lot still depends on the outcome of Rwanda versus Angola match in view of the neck to neck contest in group four between Angola and Nigeria.
Pele who described the 5-2 win achieved by Eagles in Oran against hosts, Algeria as a miracle, regretted that the Eagles lost chances of picking their ticket to Germany early enough. Adding that it would have spared the team and Nigerians the agony of depending on permutations.
"The Eagles for what they are known for ought to have picked their ticket before now. But their present form judging from their recent exploit in Algeria is good although appears to be coming late."
That not withstanding, I think they still stand a good chance of qualifying. But you must keep an eye on the match between Rwanda and rivals, Angola because it remains a determining factor," he said.
The former Black Stars captain and member of FIFA players status committee disclosed that he has been praying for at least four countries from the West African sub region, Nigeria, Togo, Ghana and Cote d'Ivoire to qualify for Germany 2006.
"That has been my prayer, because to have the region produce four representatives is not a mean achievement. Though the situation appears dicey. It will really gladden my heart to see that dream come to pass," he said.
The former 1860 Munich ace who described Africa as a continent of great soccer talents, opined that the continent will rule the game if only efforts are intensified to manage the resources and talents available.
"We know how to play this game and the world knows and has seen it. We must go a step further to manage it well so that we are not seen only as good players but good managers also. If we can achieve that, we will rule the game for good," he enthused.
Pele who made 13 Nations Cup appearance for Ghana bagged African Footballer of the Year award in 1991, 1992 and 1993.