It is a well-deserved victory – Abdullahi

The Honourable Minister of Sports and Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi has congratulated the Nigerian Super Eagles on their victory over the Walia Antelopes of Ethiopia in the first leg of the final qualification games for the World Cup.

 The Super Eagles put up a brilliant performance and beat the Ethiopians on their own on turf in Addis Ababa by two goals to one.

Abdullahi said he was very happy with the away victory secured by the Nigerian team, stating that the win has made Nigeria’s bid for qualification to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil much easier.

He commended the technical team led by Coach Stephen Keshi and the footballers for a job well done. “The victory is well deserved and has proven once again that we are the champions of Africa,” Abdullahi stated.

He added that, “with the quality in the team and their can-do spirit, I am confident that this team would not only qualify for the World Cup in Brazil but exceed expectations. I congratulate the team; they should enjoy this hard-earned victory but not lose sight of the fact that there is one more crucial game before Brazil.”

Abdullahi thanked President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan for his constant motivation and support of the team, especially with the provision of funds. “Our President is the father of sports in Nigeria.

 I am not sure any other Nigerian President has demonstrated this same level of enthusiasm and support for our national teams and for sports generally. It is therefore no surprise then that we have achieved so many victories in the sector in the last two years.”