Peter Odemwingie Included in Nigeria’s World Cup Squad Despite Past Disputes
In a surprising selection, striker Peter Odemwingie has been named in Nigeria’s 23-man squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. The Stoke City forward, who faced recent tensions with coach Stephen Keshi, will travel with the Super Eagles after making the final cut announced on Monday.
Odemwingie had previously secured a place in the 30-man preliminary list, and his inclusion signals a potential reconciliation despite earlier misunderstandings. Fellow veteran Joseph Yobo will also feature, likely appearing in his last World Cup despite a strained relationship with Keshi.
However, midfielder Sunday Mba, one of Keshi’s promising talents discovered during the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations, was notably omitted from the squad.
The team is led by key players including goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama, midfield maestro John Obi Mikel, and forward Emmanuel Emenike.
Nigeria is drawn in Group F, facing tough competition from Argentina, Iran, and Bosnia & Herzegovina.
Nigeria’s 23-Man Squad:
Goalkeepers: Vincent Enyeama (Lille, France), Austin Ejide (Hapoel Be’er Sheva, Israel), Chigozie Agbim (Gombe United, Nigeria)
Defenders: Elderson Echiejile (Monaco, France), Godfrey Oboabona (Rizespor, Turkey), Azubuike Egwuekwe (Warri Wolves, Nigeria), Juwon Oshaniwa (Ashdod FC, Israel), Joseph Yobo (Norwich City, England), Kunle Odunlami (Sunshine Stars, Nigeria), Kenneth Omeruo (Chelsea, England), Efe Ambrose
Midfielders: John Obi Mikel (Chelsea, England), Ogenyi Onazi (Lazio, Italy), Ramon Azeez (Almeria, Spain), Michael Uchebo, Gabriel Reuben
Forwards: Shola Ameobi (Newcastle United, England), Victor Moses (Liverpool, England), Emmanuel Emenike (Fenerbahçe, Turkey), Peter Odemwingie (Stoke City, England), Uche Nwofor (Heerenveen, Netherlands), Ahmed Musa (CSKA Moscow, Russia), Babatunde Michael
With a blend of experience and youth, the Super Eagles aim to make a significant impact in Brazil, starting with challenging group fixtures against footballing powerhouses Argentina, alongside Iran and Bosnia & Herzegovina.
