It was a busy and exciting Monday for the Super Eagles and their crew as Sports Minister, Dr Tammy Danagogo accompanied by the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon Gbenga Elegbeleye and NFF President Pinnick Amaju, paid a surprise visit to the team during its evening training session at the mainbowl of the National Stadium in Abuja.

HUMBLED: Super Eagles players listen to their coach before training ahead of the return clash with Sudan on Wednesday.

The Minister in his brief address to the players said he was doubly sure that Nigeria will qualify for the championship in Morocco, adding that obstacles that have been noticed have been eliminated. He assured players and officials of the team of President Goodluck Jonathan’s support in the remaining three qualifiers leading to the finals in Morocco.

The Minister said the team must not be distracted by criticisms from Nigerians, adding that they were doing that because of the huge belief they had in the capacity of the team to deliver.

“If someone has absolute belief in you and you disappoint him a little he gets overboard, but go and restore that belief by winning the remaining three matches which will ensure you land in Maroc 2015”, he said.

The NFF President spoke in a similar vein, declaring that whatever the team will need to qualify, including his possible resignation for qualification will be made available.

Amaju later came to the Eagles camp at the Bolton White Apartments, where he held two separate meetings behind closed doors, first with the technical crew led by Stephen Keshi and later with the players. He refused to disclose his interaction with both parties, saying he was only making consultation with them because he wanted a very strong and positive start for the new leadership of the NFF, which he heads.