Former Nigeria international Friday Ekpo has called on the Super Eagles coaching crew to fully utilize the Unity Cup as an opportunity to evaluate new and home-based players ahead of future competitions.
Speaking before Nigeria’s opening clash against Zimbabwe, Ekpo stressed that the tournament arrives at the perfect moment for fresh invitees and diaspora players to prove themselves.
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“This is the right opportunity to test new players,” Ekpo said.
According to the former Super Eagles midfielder, the coaching crew must allow the newcomers enough freedom and confidence to express themselves naturally.
“They need to play without fear,” he implied.
Ekpo also stressed that the home-based stars should not face unnecessary pressure while adjusting to the demands of international football.
“The players must feel relaxed enough to show their quality,” he noted.
Despite encouraging experimentation, the former Nigerian international insisted the Super Eagles must still maintain a strong winning mentality throughout the tournament.
“Nigeria must always play to win,” he added.
Ekpo believes the Unity Cup can help the technical crew discover players capable of contributing to the national team long-term.
“This competition could reveal future stars,” many football observers believe.
Nigeria enters the tournament under pressure to rebuild confidence after missing out on the FIFA World Cup.
“The fans still expect strong performances from the Super Eagles,” supporters continue to emphasize.
For Friday Ekpo, the message is clear.
Give new players opportunities.
Allow them express themselves confidently.
And maintain Nigeria’s winning mentality at all times.
Because successful national teams are built by balancing development with competitiveness.
