Nigeria Football Federation Raises Alarm Over World Cup Playoffs vs Ghana, Sends Strong Petition to CAF

• Ghana vs Nigeria first leg clash could be played at a neutral venue as the Nigerian Football Federation petitions CAF
• The Nigerian football house has complained about the state of the Cape Coast Stadium which is scheduled to hold on March 25
• Both countries are billed to take on each other for a spot at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar later this year

The Nigeria Football Federation has filed a petition to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) over the situation and a CAF/FIFA inspection will head to Ghana to follow up.

CAF had earlier rejected an application by Ghana for the match to be moved to the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.

The match may be moved to a neutral venue with Benin and Morocco suitable options.

Barely two weeks to the encounter, have reports had it that the Cape Coast Stadium which has the approval to host Ghana’s home remains in a bad state.

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Complete Sports reports that there had been complaints about the state of the pitch after Ghana hosted an Independence Day parade on 6 March to mark the country’s 65th anniversary.

It was gathered that renovations have been made to the facility, but it appears the stadium will not be ready for the game against Nigeria slated for March 25.

Ike Shorunmu tips Nigeria to beat Ghana

Ex-Nigeria International Ike Shorunmu contends the attacking talents named in coach Augustine Eguavoen's 25-man squad will be a major threat to Ghana.

Shorunmu, who played for Nigeria at the 2002 World Cup, admits the game will be a tough tie however he remains optimistic the Super Eagles will soar above the Black Stars after the two legs.

Coach Eguavoen named nine forwards in his squad to face the four-time African champions as he aims to lead Nigeria to a fourth successive appearance at the FIFA World Cup.

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FIFA confirms North African Referees for Ghana vs Nigeria play-offs

Sports Brief earlier reported that North African referees have been named to officiate the crucial 2022 World Cup qualifiers between the Black Stars of Ghana and the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

The latest confirmation by the world’s football governing body says Jiyed Redouane from Morocco will take charge of the first leg of the encounter in Gold Coast.

The 42-year-old was said to have had his first international game on June 9, 2012, as he had been a CAF and FIFA official since 2009.

Tunisian referee, Sadok Selmi, will officiate the second leg in Abuja.