President Muhammadu Buhari has urged the Super Eagles to make Nigeria proud at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
Buhari advised the Super Eagles to use their status as the youngest team in the tournament to their advantage.
The president said this on Wednesday when he hosted the team at the council chamber of the state house, Abuja.
He said: “You are going to represent us in Russia, you must bear in mind that you are not just going for a tournament, with each game you must remember that you are carrying the passions, emotions and feelings of over 180 million people. Play fair and clean but demonstrate the gallant spirit which Nigerians are known for.
“Nothing unites Nigerians more than football and nothing will gladden the people of Nigeria more than for you to acquit yourself honourably by winning in Russia.
“You are the youngest team in the tournament which means you are likely the most inexperienced team, a fact that will not be lost on your opponents. But it is also something that you can use to your advantage.
“You have the full support and the blessings of all Nigerians who will look up to you for as long as the tournament last.
“I commend the Nigerian Football Federation for drawing up the right programme that is helping to refine the team to the powerful force which it’s meant to be.
“This is our time, we look up to you to make us proud. All Nigerians join me in saying to you, best of luck. Thank you and God be with you all.”
Mikel Obi, captain of the team, said all the players have been paid their allowances, a situation he described as a rarity.
“This is the first time we will be going to a tournament like this without any issues on money, bonuses or anything like that,” he said.
“I think everything is sorted now for us and all we have to do is to go out there as players and make this country proud. And with your support as the father and leader of this country, we will go out there, give our best and come back with the trophy.”
Commenting, coach Gernot Rohr said he believes the players “are able to” qualify from the “difficult group”.
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