Former Super Eagles star Garba Lawal has urged the home-based players invited by Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle for the upcoming Unity Cup to make the most of the rare opportunity.
Reacting to the inclusion of several domestic league stars in the squad, Lawal described the invitation as a major second chance for players in the Nigeria Premier Football League.
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“Chances like this don’t come often,” Lawal said.
According to the former Super Eagles winger, the selected players must take full advantage of the opportunity to convince the coaching crew and prove the quality within the domestic league.
“They must grab this opportunity with both hands,” he implied.
Lawal stressed that strong performances during the Unity Cup could help change the perception many people hold about home-based footballers in Nigeria.
“This is their chance to change the narrative,” he noted.
The former international also praised Chelle for giving local players another pathway into the national team setup.
“It’s a good opportunity for the league players,” he added.
Nigeria’s Unity Cup squad is expected to feature a blend of foreign-based professionals and NPFL talents as the Super Eagles continue rebuilding.
“The competition for places will be intense,” many football observers believe.
Lawal remains hopeful that the domestic players can prove they belong at international level if given enough trust and confidence.
“The talent is definitely there,” he stressed.
For the former Super Eagles winger, the message is clear.
Take the opportunity seriously.
Play with confidence.
And prove the quality of the domestic league.
Because national team opportunities must be earned and maximized when they arrive.
