The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) did lodge official complaints to CAF over a series of pre-match intimidations, provocations and other unprofessional attitudes by the hosts ahead of Nigeria’s game against Morocco. However, there was no need to make excessive noise about it.
There were numerous infuriating actions by the desperate Moroccans that were observed and properly addressed through the appropriate channels. Most importantly, the players did not need to be distracted. Administrative issues are best handled administratively. Some players are known to internalize such situations and allow them to affect their conduct during matches. Nigeria did not need referee’s cautions which would keep them off their last game.
Consider what was done to our goalkeeper Nwabali. It was clearly intended to provoke him but he surprised everyone by staying true to himself and refusing to remonstrate.
This is the final, so emotions and reactions will naturally be at their highest. It should also be noted that hundreds of journalists have just arrived for the final, which explains the increased publicity and heightened narratives surrounding the game.
The Senegalese are reportedly facing even more provocations than those previously experienced by Cameroon or Nigeria. Visas are allegedly not being issued to fresh applicants, ticket access is being restricted, and there are several other challenges.
Expectations are that cards may flow in today’s final with the West African side likely on the receiving end. VAR could also play a controversial role as seen in some earlier games involving the hosts.
For Nigeria, Super Eagles understand the importance of putting the semi-final encounter behind them and giving their very best in today’s match.