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Former Nigerian international Mobi Okparaku has commended Super Eagles B interim coach Augustine Eguavoen for including NPFL legend Rabiu Ali in the squad for the upcoming African Nations Championship, CHAN qualifiers.
At 44 years old, Rabiu Ali remains one of the most enduring figures in Nigerian football, with his success attributed to discipline and a health-conscious lifestyle.
This season, the Kano Pillars captain has been in fine form, scoring eight goals in 14 games across all competitions.
In preparation for the CHAN qualifiers, Eguavoen released a 30-man squad on Monday, signalling a commitment to combining youth with experience to ensure the Super Eagles B secure their place in next year’s tournament.
Speaking in an interview with Ifeanyi Udeze on Brila Fm No Holds Barred, Okparaku, a gold medalist at the 1996 Olympic Games, lauded the decision to include Ali, highlighting his potential impact on and off the pitch.
“Rabiu is a disciplined player, he doesn’t talk much; he just plays his football.
He’s intelligent, strong, and can inspire the team,” Okparaku said.
“Rabiu can put the players on their feet. He will make them understand that you can still play even if you are this old.
He will also encourage the young players and his discipline and impact will motivate and guide them, which will benefit the team significantly.”
The Super Eagles B will face Ghana in the qualifiers, a rematch of the 2022 encounter where Nigeria fell short of qualification.
The first leg is set for Sunday, December 22, in Accra, with the return leg scheduled for Saturday, December 28, at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
Rabiu Ali’s inclusion could prove pivotal as the team looks to overturn past disappointments and secure a CHAN ticket.
