Former Nigeria captain, Dr Patrick Olusegun Odegbami, popularly known as ‘The Mathematical,’ passionately called on Nigerians, both at home and abroad, to rally behind and have an unwavering belief in the Super Eagles as they compete in the 34th Africa Cup of Nations finals in Cote d’Ivoire.
Odegbami’s faith in the Super Eagles is grounded in the team’s remarkable turnaround. As a former captain himself, he understands the dynamics of the beautiful game and acknowledges the dedication and hard work exhibited by the players and coaching staff. The team’s journey to the AFCON finals has been marked by resilience, skillful play, and a unity that speaks volumes about their determination to bring glory to the nation.
Former Nigeria captain, Dr. Patrick Olusegun Odegbami, strongly believes in the Super Eagles’ success at the Africa Cup of Nations
Odegbami urges patriotic Nigerians to support the team, highlights the team’s turnaround, and recalls historical superstitions about playing Cote d’Ivoire
The iconic football figure, Odegbami, is not merely voicing his support from the sidelines; he is issuing a call to action. In his radio address, he called on every patriotic Nigerian to contribute to the team’s success in whatever capacity they can. Whether it’s through vocal encouragement, donning the national colors, or even organizing local support events, Odegbami believes that collective support is key to boosting the Super Eagles’ morale and performance on the field.
As Odegbami stirs the patriotic spirit, he also delves into the rich tapestry of football history and superstitions associated with facing formidable opponents like Cote d’Ivoire. Drawing on the lore of the game, he recalls moments when the collective belief of a nation seemed to influence the outcome of crucial matches. In particular, he touches on historical superstitions surrounding encounters with Cote d’Ivoire, emphasizing the power of collective positive energy in shaping the destiny of football contests.
Speaking on his radio program on Eagle FM yesterday morning, Odegbami expressed his strong conviction that Nigeria would emerge as champions for the fourth time at the ongoing tournament. He urged all patriotic Nigerians to contribute in their respective capacities to support the team’s campaign.
“I have unyielding confidence that this team will do it again. I have been saying it for weeks, and the belief is strengthening. That’s why I drove all the way from Nigeria with my team, covering one thousand and one hundred kilometres of single-carriage road, to cheer the team to victory,” Odegbami affirmed.
Reflecting on the team’s journey, he acknowledged the initial uncertainties before the tournament but pointed out the significant turnaround after defeating the host nation and a strong contender, Equatorial Guinea. Odegbami recalled historical superstitions, mentioning that whenever Nigeria played or defeated Cote d’Ivoire at AFCON, they reached the final and sometimes emerged victorious.
As a key figure in Nigeria’s football history, Odegbami was the top scorer of the 1980 finals that Nigeria hosted and won. He emphasized the pivotal role of their victory over Cote d’Ivoire during the group phase encounter. ‘The Mathematical’ scored 23 goals for Nigeria, winning AFCON gold and two bronze medals, participating in the 1980 Olympics, and being voted the third-best player in Africa in 1980.
The Super Eagles are intensifying their preparations for Monday’s clash with the Wild Dogs of Guinea Bissau at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny. A victory in this match will secure Nigeria’s position as group winners, pending the Ivorian Elephants’ match against Equatorial Guinea on the same day at the Stade Olympique Alassane Ouattara.
