Although the National U-23 team, the `Dream Team IV’ are through to the next round of the soccer event on the ongoing Rio Olympics, pundits are uncertain which team could face the country in the quarters.
“Our desire now is to have a more favourable team to meet, but certainly not the Brazilian team,” noted a Rio de Janeiro-based fan of the Eagles.
“Now it is not on whether the team will go through. Its already there, but on which team, it will be facing our team in the quarters,’’ noted Fola Oludare, a Nigerian resident of the city.
He said there were already subtle threats by “my Brazilians friends”.
“They are seeking to know which of the teams I will be supporting, Brazil or Nigeria?
“Many of us the religious minded have been praying to God for His intervention. However, it is clear that that Brazil as hosts should be avoided at this point”.
With victories over Japan, 5-4 in the first match and 1-0 against Sweden, Nigeria had been guaranteed a place in the quarterfinals.
Indeed, the National team was one of the two countries to ensure the maximum six points through its first two matches.
With the match to hold in the Brazilian city of Sao Paulo, many Nigerians in the Diaspora, resident within the city and environs, the Dream Team is guaranteed a full house as it will be a converging point for them to savour the artistry and marksmanship, hallmark of the current side.
What has remained uncertain has been, which of the two countries – Japan or Sweden – to go through to the next stage. Colombia would have nothing to lose as it was at the bottom.
According to a few fans, they could be out to play for pride.
“Their regional pride is at stake as the ongoing Olympic Games is the first in the zone,’’ noted Tony Ubani, Press Officer of Team Nigeria to the Games.
Habu Gumel, the President of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) and the Sports Minister, Solomn Dalung have both directed that all members of Team Nigeria, including those for soccer event, be settled their entitlements.
“As I talk with you all relevant accounts personnel are here in Rio de Janeiro. They have been working out all that are due to each person.”
“I must tell you I am proud of the U-23 team. They have done well so far. We shall continue to give them moral support they require to finish up a good job that they have started,” Gumel added.
The match holds on Wednesday in Sao Paulo, would be on live in the early hours of Thursday in Nigeria. There is a four hour time difference between the two countries.(NAN)
Leave a Reply