Confederation of African Football (CAF) appeals board president, Barrister A. U. Mustapha has praised the Super Eagles for their efforts at the World Cup and, though he admits Nigerians expected a better outing, he opined that the players did the best they could.
Mustapha insisted that the Eagles gave their all in circumstances during their three group matches, and cautioned analysts who have been condemning the team.
While pointing out that the players put up impressive performances against Iceland and Argentina, after their opening group loss to Croatia, Mustapha added that the current set of Eagles possess the capacity to keep improving with an eye on future glory.
Mustapha, who also hailed the NFF for adequate preparations for the team, declared: “The FIFA World Cup is the highest level of the sport of football, and we must realize that it is no piece of cake. Our boys gave their very best in the circumstances.
“Truly, they were under par against Croatia and that was understandable because it was their first match. We saw an improved team in their last two matches.
“I want to give kudos to the Board of Nigeria Football Federation led by Mr. Amaju Melvin Pinnick.
“They gave the team everything it required to succeed, in terms of adding more quality technical staff, high level of preparation in terms of friendlies and camping sites and adequate financing.
“They even provided the team with its share of the World Cup money before the tournament. The Board and the technical crew deserve our commendation.”
