Stephen Keshi Names Provisional Squad for 2014 World Cup as Nigeria Prepares for Brazil
Stephen Keshi has begun preparations for Nigeria’s 2014 World Cup campaign by unveiling a provisional squad of 30 players, set to begin training next week. With just weeks until the tournament kicks off in Brazil, the Super Eagles’ head coach is working hard to fine-tune his team for what will be a challenging Group F, which includes Argentina, Iran, and Bosnia.
Among the surprises in Keshi’s selection is the return of Peter Odemwingie, who had a turbulent relationship with the coach in the past but has earned his place due to his strong performances with Stoke City since January. Veteran defender Joseph Yobo also makes a comeback to the squad. However, notable absentees include Villarreal’s Ikechukwu Uche and Dynamo Kyiv’s Ideye Brown, who miss out on the 30-man list.
In line with Keshi’s preference, the squad also includes around ten players from Nigeria’s domestic league, giving local talent a chance to prove themselves on the international stage.
Nigeria’s World Cup journey will see them face off against Argentina, Iran, and Bosnia, and Keshi is optimistic about his team’s prospects. Despite Argentina being considered the favorites to top the group, Keshi believes that Nigeria, like the other teams, has a legitimate chance of progressing. “Everyone is saving first place for Argentina even though the tournament hasn’t even started! Who can say today who will finish first? Nigeria, like the other teams in the group, has a chance,” Keshi said.
“Our goal is to get past the first round. Not just for Nigeria, but for all of Africa! We have the potential,” he added.
Keshi’s squad 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
As Keshi looks to guide the Super Eagles through a tough group stage, all eyes will be on how these players, including the blend of experienced internationals and promising newcomers, perform in Brazil.
