Stephen Keshi Names Provisional Squad for 2014 World Cup Preparations
Stephen Keshi has officially launched Nigeria’s preparations for the 2014 World Cup with the release of a provisional squad of 30 players set to begin training next week. The Super Eagles’ head coach has made a few notable decisions, including the surprise return of Peter Odemwingie and Joseph Yobo, while some key figures have notably been omitted.
Odemwingie, who had been in a prolonged dispute with Keshi in previous months, finds himself back in contention after a series of impressive performances with Premier League club Stoke City. His inclusion has raised eyebrows, considering the tension between him and the coach earlier in the qualification process. Similarly, veteran defender Joseph Yobo makes a return to the squad after a period of uncertainty surrounding his international future.
However, the omissions of striker Ikechukwu Uche, who plays for Villarreal, and forward Ideye Brown of Dynamo Kyiv, both of whom were regulars in the squad previously, have come as a surprise. Their absence leaves room for other players to stake their claim as Keshi narrows down his final selection.
In line with Keshi’s usual approach, the squad also includes around ten players from Nigeria’s domestic league, providing an opportunity for homegrown talent to prove their worth on the international stage.
As Nigeria gears up for their campaign in Brazil, the Super Eagles have been drawn into Group F alongside Argentina, Iran, and Bosnia. While many have already pegged Argentina as the favorites to top the group, Keshi remains optimistic about his team’s chances of advancing to the knockout stages.
“The tournament hasn’t even started yet, and people are already assuming Argentina will take first place. We don’t know who will finish on top. Nigeria, like all the teams in our group, has a chance,” Keshi said confidently. “Our goal is to progress beyond the first round, not just for Nigeria but for all of Africa. We have the potential.”
The 30-man provisional squad, as announced by Keshi, includes:
Goalkeepers: Austin Ejide, Chigozie Agbim, Daniel Akpeyi, Vincent Enyeama
Defenders: Azubuike Egwuekwe, Efe Ambrose, Elderson Echiéjilé, Godfrey Oboabona, Kenneth Omeruo, Joseph Yobo, Juwon Oshaniwa, Kunle Odunlami
Midfielders: Ejike Uzoenyi, Joel Obi, Nnamdi Oduamadi, Nosa Igiebor, Obi Mikel, Ogenyi Onazi, Ramon Azeez, Reuben Gabriel, Sunday Mba
Forwards: Ahmed Musa, Emmanuel Emenike, Michael Babatunde, Michel Uchebo, Obinna Nsofor, Osaze Odemwingie, Shola Ameobi, Victor Moses
Keshi’s leadership will be closely watched as Nigeria prepares for what promises to be a fiercely competitive World Cup. With his mix of experienced internationals and emerging stars, the Super Eagles will be hoping to make an impact on the global stage.
