By Victor Kanayo
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) President, Patrice Motsepe, has said he believes the Super Eagles of Nigeria have the potential to win the FIFA World Cup.
The Super Eagles missed out during the just concluded 2022 World Cup in Qatar after losing to the Black Stars of Ghana in the playoffs in March.
Despite not qualifying for Qatar 2022, Motsepe expressed optimism that the Eagles are good enough to become world champions.
“I am absolutely confident [because of] the talent, God-given skills, and history of Nigerian football. Nigeria is one of those countries that have the potential – not just to go to the semi-final, not just to go to the final, but to win the World Cup,” Motsepe told Channels Television.
To make this happen, the South African business tycoon said CAF has several programmes for its member countries.
“To focus on youth football development, football facilities for boys and girls, amateur football, football development at club level, training coaches and training the trainers, the development of referees and very importantly, to make sure that we work together with the football federation in Nigeria so that they can continue the leadership that they have provided for many years.
“We are confident that Nigerian football will continue to be not just amongst the best in Africa but in the world and will make us proud as it has on so many occasions in the past. Our plan is to see Nigeria in the next World Cup,” he said.
On Morocco’s semi-final feat in Qatar, Motsepe said it has opened the floodgate for the continent.
“Morocco opened the door by reaching the semi-finals this month and I am confident an African nation will go further at the next World Cup.
“The main objective of CAF (Confederation of African Football) is for an African nation to win the World Cup and that goal is within reach,” he said.
