Football World Mourns Keshi

The football world has
been mourning the sudden death of former Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi.
The ‘Big Boss’, as he was fondly called died of cardiac arrest early Wednesday  in Benin City, according to family sources.
Reacting to his sudden demise were present and past footballers, top officials, the international media, as well as football federations.
Former Nigerian sports minister Bolaji Abdullahi saluted: “That we were victorious and won the Nation’s Cup after 19 years was largely due to the leadership provided to the team by Keshi.
“He was passionate and committed to the Super Eagles team as he was to Nigerian football.
“Keshi’s love for Nigeria was never in doubt, whether as a coach, captain of the Super Eagles or footballer.”
Keshi’s former Nigeria teammate and his replacement as the Super Eagles coach, Sunday Oliseh wrote: “Horrible news and sad day as our legendary captain  and brother Stephen Keshi dies. May his blessed soul rest in peace. We lost an iconic hero today.”
Hapoel Be’er Sheva of Israel and current Nigeria international, John Ogu, who made his debut for Nigeria under Keshi, remains in shock: “Please tell me it’s a lie that Keshi is gone!!!Please tell me it’s all false.
“Please I beg you in the name of God that it’s all false that Keshi is gone. Big boss please!!!!! Don’t do this boss,” he wrote.
The international media also paid its respect to the former Nigeria captain. English tabloid, Daily Mirror also paid their respects.
“Former Nigeria coach and captain Stephen Keshi dies 54,” they wrote on twitter.
Former African footballer of the year and Zambian legend, Kalusha Bwalya, was also not left out as he expressed shock at the death of the ‘Big Boss’.
“Woke up to the sad news of the passing of my brother Stephen Keshi. I can’t believe it. I am in shock . Football legend. RIP.
“I can’t believe it. I am in shock, my brother. Keshi and myself started almost at same time in Belgium (1986) RIP.”
Keshi, 54, was set to return to coaching after he was sacked a year ago by Nigeria.
He also led Nigeria to its third African Cup of Nations title in 2013 – the first in 19 years – as well as leading them to the second round of the World Cup the following year.