Thursday, February 21, 2008

Beijing 2008:U-23 Male team on tour of the United States

The Chief Coach of the National U-23 Male team, Samson Siasia has concluded arrangements to take a largely home-based team on tour of the United States, ahead of next month’s crucial Beijing 2008 qualifier against South Africa.
The tour would begin at the end of this month and FA officials said they endorsed the trip because of the importance they attach to the game in which a win is imperative for Nigeria to make this summer’s Olympics.
“We know that a sizeable number of his players will be coming from Europe but there is need to also ensure that the local ones are prepared properly. Besides we would have loved to have had them (Euro-based players) on the trip but their clubs will never release them,” explained the FA official.
The Dream Team coach also wants to use the trip to try out a number of new faces.
The players heading to the US are: Goalkeepers Ambrose Vanzekin and Ikechukwu Ezenwa, the defenders are Chibuzor Okonkwo, Efe Ambrose, Monday James, Muyideen Oyewole and Osadebamwen Okoro.
Midfielders are Bernard Okorowanta, Jeremiah Ani, Chima Daniel Uchechi, Dudu Omagbemi and Daniel Oyekachi. Leading the attack are Ada Adama, Emeka Onuoha, Solomon David Abwo,Gege Toriola and Innocent Emeghara.
Siasia said he hoped to have some players who are based in the USA join the team for the tour.

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