How Ukah missed Eagles debut against Botswana

A mild drama played out on Saturday during the Super Eagles friendly match against the Zebras of Botswana at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City culminating in Widzew Lodz of Poland defender Ugochukwu Ukah missing his debut for the Eagles. The player, born in Italy to Nigerian immigrant parents, had earlier been invited for the friendly game against Ghana last month but also failed to see action.But as the game in Benin City progressed, Ukah was told to warm-up in the second half by the technical crew. After several minutes of warm-up, assistant coach, Sylvanus Okpalla, beckoned on the player to get set for his first cap.As the player excitedly pulled on his jersey, the teams second assistant coach, Daniel Amokachi, beckoned on him to go back to his seat. Eventually, he was not fielded.After the game, Ukah told our correspondent that the technical crew did not realise that the mandatory six changes in friendly game had already been made.Ukah said, We didnt know six changes were made already. The goalkeeper was substituted but we didnt see that. It was unfortunate that I had to sit down back on the bench. But I am happy for the consideration I was given by the coach.I feel he sees the effort I put into training; I put 200 per cent in training with a good attitude, which one day will pay off. I just have to wait for my time and keep working hard.It comes as a shock again that the teams officials could take such little detail lightly. Erstwhile coach Samson Siasia confessed that he never knew a 2-1 win over Guinea in Abuja would qualify the team for next years Africa Cup of Nations.The coach opted for more goals, exposing the rear which gave the Guineans the equaliser. The blunder cost Nigeria a first elimination from the event in 25 years and Siasia his job.
Click here to read full news..