The Digest:
A dispute over squad size has delayed the Super Eagles' team announcement for the playoff against Gabon. SCORENigeria can exclusively report that coach Eric Chelle is at odds with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), insisting on a larger squad to navigate potential injuries and fatigue. At the same time, the federation seeks to limit costs.
Key Points:
- Coach Eric Chelle demanded a squad larger than the standard 23 players for the upcoming playoffs.
- The NFF pushed for a smaller 23-man squad primarily to reduce operational costs.
- Chelle argued that a bigger pool is necessary to manage two potential high-stakes matches in a short period.
- The delayed squad announcement was a direct result of this ongoing disagreement.
- Opponents Gabon have already named a 25-man squad for the crucial match.
- This is not the first such dispute; a similar issue arose for the Unity Cup in May.
- The announced 24-man squad includes suspended defender Semi Ajayi, who would only be available for a potential final.
Sources: SCORENigeria, The Punch
