The former coach of the senior national team of Nigeria Clemence Westerhoff says the present crop of players in the senior national team of Nigeria can be as good as the 94 team if he is given a chance to make an input.
Westerhoff built what many believed is the greatest Nigerian team of all time so far in 1994. The team conquered Africa at the Africa Cup of Nations before making history by qualifying for the World Cup for the first time same year.
At the World Cup they were narrowly beaten 1-2 after extra time by eventual losing finalist Italy. Their run of form earned the team the highest ever position Nigeria have ever attained in the FIFA Rankings as they were placed 5th in the world.
Speaking to Owngoalnigeria.com, the coach who is now in his 70’s said he sees some similarities in the present team like the one he had in 1994 but they still have some way to go before reaching that level.
” I have always wished to coach Nigeria again. This present team has quality player like the team I had in 94. A lot of them are based in Europe like my team. Like I did in 94, I can make this team that great if I am given a role to play but there’s a coach and we all have to support him for the best”, he said.
” The main difference that I see between this team and that of 94 is mentality. Back then we believe we can beat any team if we play to our strength. This team need to have that mentality. It pays to be arrogant at times when you’re good”, he concluded.
Ade Emmanuel
