Super Eagles

Strike grounds Super Eagles as key players miss camp

By Asikpo Samuel

Posted on June 4, 2024

As Nigeria gears up for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d'Ivoire, Ademola Lookman, the Atalanta forward, has expressed his determination to showcase his best performance in his first major tournament appearance for Nigeria.

The Super Eagles’ preparations for their crucial World Cup qualifier against South Africa on Friday have been disrupted by the ongoing nationwide strike in Nigeria.

Several key players, including Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, Frank Onyeka, Semi Ajayi, Maduka Okoye, Paul Onuachu, and Bright Osayi-Samuel, are yet to arrive at the team camp in Uyo due to the strike action which has affected the aviation sector.

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) are leading the industrial action, demanding a minimum wage increase to N494,000 to which the federal government have countered with a lower offer of N60,000.

This strike has grounded domestic flights, preventing the aforementioned players from joining their teammates ahead of the crucial match against Bafana Bafana. While the players are reportedly in Nigeria, they are unable to travel to Uyo for training and preparation.

The potential absence of these key figures throws a wrench into Coach Finidi George’s plans. With the match only a few days away, it remains unclear if they will be able to join the team in time to contribute significantly to the World Cup qualifier.