Mba takes game laurels
by Sammy Wejinya 04 February 2013, 05:12
Enugu Rangers' midfielder, Sunday Mba, has been selected as the man of the match for his stellar showing in Nigeria’s 2-1 quarterfinal victory over the Ivory Coast at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa.
The 24-year-old Mba produced an energetic performance capped with a spectacular goal as Nigeria advanced to the final ahead of the highly-rated Ivorians on Sunday.
Head coach of the Nigerian national team, Stephen Keshi was impressed with Mba’s showing and promised to give the midfielder a kiss.
“I will probably give him a kiss this (Sunday) evening. He did very well in the game,” Keshi said at the post-match press conference.
Mba is one of six players from the Nigeria Premier League (NPL) who made the squad to South Africa and Keshi took the time to criticise Nigerians who have failed to place their faith in domestic talent.
“In Nigeria, we are not patient. A lot of Nigerians feel that only the foreign-based players can deliver but I think it is time for a change,” Keshi said.
Reuben Gabriel (Kano Pillars), Godfrey Oboabona (Sunshine Stars), Azubuike Egwuekwe (Warri Wolves), Ejike Uzoenyi and Chigozie Agbim (both Enugu Rangers) are the five other local-based players in the Nigerian team.
