Sylvanus Okpala Declares Lofty Target for Nigeria As He Eyes Super Eagles Job

• The race to find an ideal fit for the vacant Super Eagles role enters into another stage
• Sylvanus Okpala is among the managers who applied to become the next Nigeria coach
• The 62-year-old has declared a target for the Nigerian team if he is named the next gaffer

The search for the perfect fit for the vacant Super Eagles coaching role continues, with the deadline for applications set by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) passing on March 13.

Reports suggest that over 115 local and foreign coaches have submitted applications to become the next coach of the Nigerian team.

Among the reported 115, one notable applicant is former Super Eagles assistant coach, Sylvanus Okpala. The 62-year-old, who was part of the victorious Nigeria team at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), has consistently expressed his desire to return the Super Eagles to their former glory following the departure of Jose Peseiro.

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Known affectionately as 'Quick Silva,' Okpala has once again shared his thoughts on the Super Eagles team, hinting at a lofty ambition if given the opportunity to coach the team.

Okpala declares ambition with Super Eagles

In an interview reported by Score Nigeria, the 1980 AFCON winner revealed a lofty, ambitious vision for the Nigeria national team.

Emphasising the importance of Nigeria achieving an unprecedented international milestone, he expressed:

"Making it to the World Cup semifinals isn't surprising in Africa anymore because Morocco did it in the last World Cup," Okpala said. "I believe Africa should be aiming to win the World Cup. The game is the same; the difference is in our mindset."

Highlighting Nigeria's readiness to achieve this goal, he added:

"Our players are overseas, with many playing in top leagues like the Italian league, where they often play against each other. This means they get similar training. So, when we go to the World Cup, our goal should be to win it."

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These statements from the 62-year-old can be seen as a subtle manifesto and declaration of intent to the NFF technical committee, who are set to commence the screening process after the conclusion of the application period.

It's worth noting that Coach Okpala has not held any significant coaching role within the national team ranks since his departure as assistant coach in 2014.

Top contenders for Super Eagles job

In another report, Sports Brief highlighted a lineup of top candidates vying for the Nigerian team coaching role.

A wave of managers, including Emmanuel Amunike, Finidi George, and Daniel Amokachi, have all thrown their hats into the ring to lead the Super Eagles.

The NFF is now gearing up to kick off the rigorous screening process for these applicants.