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Drama Unfolds as Super Eagles Sing Old National Anthem in World Cup Qualifier Against Benin

In a surprising turn of events during the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, inadvertently recited their former national anthem, ‘Arise O Compatriot,’ instead of the recently adopted ‘Nigeria We Hail Thee’. This incident occurred during their match against Benin Republic, which is part of the Group C fourth round qualifiers.

The legislative change to the national anthem was effected on May 29, when President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed the National Anthem Bill 2024 into law. Despite this, the old anthem echoed through Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan on Monday, June 10, as the players lined up for the start of the game. The error was corrected at halftime when the correct anthem was played, following intervention by Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) officials.

Dayo Enebi Achor, Head of International Competitions at the NFF, expressed his thoughts on the oversight. He mentioned that the NFF had taken the precaution of providing a recording of the new anthem to the Benin Republic Football Association authorities prior to the match. The mix-up was quickly addressed, and the correct anthem was played before the second half commenced.

On the field, Super Eagles coach Finidi George made several strategic changes to the lineup compared to the previous game against South Africa on Friday, June 7. In goal, Nwabali was chosen to guard the net. The defense was comprised of Bassey, Tanimu, Ajayi, and Osayi-Samuel, while the midfield saw Ndidi, Onyeka, and Iwobi controlling the game. The attacking front was led by Chukwueze, Lookman, and Moffi.

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Coach George’s selection showed significant adjustments from the previous match. Ademola Lookman and Terem Moffi spearheaded the attack, with Victor Boniface on standby. Samuel Chukwueze, who replaced Kelechi Iheanacho, and Moffi, who took over from Paul Onuachu, were notable changes that aimed to inject fresh energy into the team’s offensive tactics.

Finidi George, reflecting on the team’s recent performance and the draw against South Africa, sought to reassure fans and critics alike. He emphasized the importance of maintaining composure and not succumbing to pressure. The coach highlighted that the ultimate goal remains securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup, and the path to achieving this is marked by calm and strategic planning, rather than frantic action.

This mix-up at a crucial moment of the qualifiers serves as a reminder of the challenges that can occur in international competitions. However, the swift resolution of the anthem issue and the strategic changes in the lineup demonstrate the team’s resilience and adaptability under pressure. As the qualifiers progress, the Super Eagles continue to focus on their performance, aiming to make a significant impact on the global stage in 2026.

What do you think?

Written by Realinfoteam

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