Chidozie Awaziem: Super Eagles Defender Speaks on Nigeria’s Rivalry With Ghana Ahead of Friendly

• The Super Eagles of Nigeria and Ghana's Black Stars renew another instalment of their rivalry
• Both West African teams face off for the first time since their FIFA qualifying fixture in 2022
• Nigeria defender, Chidozie Awaziem, has opened up on the rivalry between both countries

The Super Eagles of Nigeria renew their rivalry with Ghana's Black Stars in the final friendly international window ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification series.

The clash, slated for the Stade de Marrakech in Morocco, will see both sides clash for the first time since their last meeting in 2022.

A flurry of conversations has continued to herald the fixture, with fans and stakeholders of both teams hinting that this is going to be more than a friendly game.

Nonetheless, in the lead-up to the clash, Nigeria defender, Chidozie Awaziem, has weighed in on the discussion, touching on the rivalry between both nations and what is to be expected of the Super Eagles.

2023 African Games: Uganda coach asserts confidence ahead of opening clash against Nigeria

Football

Awaziem speaks ahead of Ghana clash

Speaking to the media, as captured by outlet All Nigeria Soccer, the Boavista defender emphasised the Super Eagles' intentions for the upcoming fixture.

"Honestly, we are aiming for a strong performance against Ghana. We understand the historical rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana, but we are well-prepared and fully focused on the match."

Seeking to temper emotions among fans of both nations, the 27-year-old remarked:

"Football is not about fighting; it's a sport. We are going there to play, not to engage in conflict with each other.

We are all professional footballers representing our countries. It's going to be an exciting game between Nigeria and Ghana."

The player's diplomatic tone contrasts sharply with the more assertive stance of interim coach, Finidi George. The Super Eagles coach hinted that his team would approach the game with the utmost seriousness and be determined to secure a victory.

Segun Odegbami gives NFF key criteria to consider in selecting next Super Eagles coach

Football

Troost-Ekong absent from Nigeria's squad

In another report, Sports Brief stated that vice-captain, William Troost-Ekong, has been excluded from Nigeria's squad for the March international window.

The 30-year-old is currently sidelined with an aggravated muscle cramp that will keep him out for the remainder of the season.

Troost-Ekong was a key figure in the Super Eagles team that reached the final of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.