Adepoju wary of Ethiopia
by Humphrey Njoku
Former Nigerian attacking midfielder, Mutiu Adepoju has said it will not be a walk-over for the Super Eagles against the Walya Antelopes of Ethiopia in the final qualifying match of the 2014 Fifa World Cup on Saturday at the UJ Esuene Stadium, Calabar.
Striker, Emmanuel Emenike struck twice in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in the first fixture to give the Eagles a 2-1 advantage going into the decisive duel on Saturday.
Adepoju said the 2013 Afcon champions have done the hardest work in Addis Ababa but must keep focus throughout the remaining 90 minutes on Saturday to be double sure of safe passage to Brazil next summer.
“Of course, it won’t be a walk-over for the Eagles even though I agree they’ve played the most difficult game in Addis Ababa.
“The victory in Addis Ababa has given the side 50% foothold in Brazil but there is another 50% to be decided on Saturday.
“I know football is played for 90 minutes and within that time the unimaginable could happen so the Eagles must take the Ethiopians serious from the blast of the whistle till the time the whistle sounds signaling the end of the game.
“No team is 100% perfect that includes the Super Eagles as well as the Walya Antelopes of Ethiopia but that’s nothing for us to worry our heads as I’m confident Keshi will fashion out a plan to take care of any shortcoming that may arise in the course of the game.
“I know victory is certain for the Eagles but they must sweat profusely to earn the win, it will never come on a platter of gold,†said the former 3SC and Real Sociedad player to supersport.com.
A draw or a victory for the Eagles on Saturday will cement a place for them in the upcoming quadrennial global football showpiece in Brazil.