The just-ended Super 4
has exposed the many shortcomings of the clubs who will represent Nigeria at this year’s CAF club competitions.
Kano Pillars and Enyimba will feature in the Champions League, while Warri Wolves and Dolphins battle in the Confederation Cup.
The competition, which was expanded to take in the U20 and U23 national teams, lived up to its billing in many aspects as well as highlighted the need for the country’s top clubs to invest more in young players, rather than the usual practice of recycling old and tired legs season after season.
The Super 4 clearly showed Nigerian clubs are not doing enough scouting around the country to fish out young talents and also showcase them.
It was also obvious that the country’s flag bearers are not ready to take on the rest of the continent yet.
Good enough the competition served to alert these teams of their failings so that they could address them before they begin their international campaigns later this month.
Kano Pillars and Enyimba won two games each, lost one and drew one.
Pillars and Wolves showed they have potent attacks after they scored six goals apiece, but a weak defence after letting in six goals each.
Pillars acquisition of Christian Obiozor, who finished as top scorer of the competition with four goals, should now ease the pressure on the team’s top stars like gambo Mohammed and Rabiu Ali.
Wolves won two games and lost three, while Dolphins proved the worst team in the competition when they failed to get a point from five matches and conceded 10 goals.
Enyimba have the best defence after conceding four goals but the worst attack as they scored a mere three goals.
Pillars coach Okey Emordi said, “The tournament served as a prelude for the continental competitions. Without the competition, some of the clubs may not have had any serious pre-season competition.”
Dolphins assistant coach John Apollo said the tournament has opened their eyes to the effects of the departure of some of their players on the team and that it has also enabled them to see the weaknesses of the side.
“Our greatest problem is the midfield which is the engine room of every team. A good midfield provides passes for the forward and covers the defence,” he offered.
“Dolphins would have won if the players had kept a cool head. We have made it clear that we will not entertain indiscipline which also costs us money.”
Wolves coach Godwin Nosike added: “The tournament has brought out the best in our players which ordinary friendly games won’t have.
“I thank the LMC and the NFF for organising this competition, they made it tougher and more competitive with the inclusion of the U23 and U20 teams.”