The Super Eagles of Nigeria are back in Lagos for the first time in about 20 years ahead of the crucial AFCON qualifier against Benin and Lesotho.
Camped at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria-Island Lagos, the players will travel to play Benin at the weekend before the home game in Lagos against Lesotho on Tuesday.
Since the announcement that the Super Eagles of Nigeria would be returning to Lagos, fans and Nigerians alike have been buzzing with excitement to see the team live in action after two decades, and the players spoke to us on what it means to them for the team to be back in Lagos and what they expect in terms of the atmosphere in the stadium and the fans when they take to the pitch at the Teslim Balogun Stadium against Lesotho.
Semi Ajayi
“I’m delighted to be back in Lagos,” the West Brom defender said. “I have a lot of family here and I spend a lot of time here when visiting my family members so Lagos is somewhere I’m very comfortable with and I’m glad that the Super Eagles are back.”
On the fans and atmosphere Ajayi said: “I’m expecting to have a really really good atmosphere even though we are not allowed to have fans with the full capacity but I’m sure the Lagos fans will let their support be felt and I’m looking forward to it.”
Joe Aribo
Speaking on what to expect, Scottish League champion Aribo said: “To be fair I’ve not experienced it but I know it’s going to be amazing playing football in Lagos because we’re back home, it would be a nice feeling to go out there and I can’t wait honestly.”
Alex Iwobi
Iwobi, who ofcourse we expect should have been briefed by his Uncle, the legendary Jay Jay Okocha expects nothing but lots of energy from the Lagos fans.
“Ofcourse I’m looking forward to the game in Lagos, I know the fans are going to bring the energy we need and it’s not just me but I can tell you everyone is looking forward to playing that game,” the Everton attacker said.