Eagles can excel at the World Cup if … – Erico

By Eddie Akalonu

Former Super Eagles assistant coach,  Joe Erico has said that the Super Eagles  could win the 2014 World Cup in Brazil  if the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF would provide the enabling environment.

“Just like we saw  the team win the African Cup of Nations in South Africa, what our players need are right incentives and recognition, then you will see them come up with their best form and performance.

I believe there is the need for the NFF to see the World Cup as a big project by which those issues that caused rancour in camp  in the past are eliminated. If it is well planned, we will get the best out of the players and we may win the cup,” he stated.

Erico, who served as goal keepers’ trainer under Coach Shaibu Amodu, said with the right environment, players could up their game beyond talent, stressing, “we have no reason not to exploit the opportunity that we have now to show the world we can do it. The ball is in the court of the NFF to get it right because players and coaches have already shown their willingness and a huge capacity to do more,” he said.

He however, said that coach Stephen Keshi must use the African Nations Championship, CHAN in South Africa this month to decide his team.

“After CHAN, I think that experimentation with new players must end so he can focus on the World Cup proper. And I think there is need to work for attacking options, defensive solidity and team work. I know with the right things in place, we will get it right this time,” he added.