An emotional departure for NIGERIA

Defeated, but not depressed: the team from NIGERIA left France on Monday 29 June, after the Danes put an end to their adventure the night before at the Stade de France (SAINT-DENIS). Even if their defeat (4-1) in the round of sixteen will remain a painful memory, the Africans are looking at the bright side of things, holding on to their smile: each player carries with them the memory of finishing first in their group after the first round, thanks to a beautiful victory against SPAIN (3-2) on 14 June (match no. 10).

In the bus transporting them back to the Château de Bellinglise near LENS, they already had their minds elsewhere: some phoned their families and friends while others played cards. Once at the château, the Nigerians stayed in the bus long enough to get a prayer in, with a peaceful tone: they all thanked God for all of the emotion they had experience during this World Cup. They also talked about the ups and downs of football and agreed that they should not be sad…

Only the following day did the African players realise that this competition was over for them. Tranquillity gave way to bitterness: “We were aware that we could lose after the first round, but we didn’t expect this against DENMARK,” admitted team captain UCHE (5), growing impatient to see his family. Ben IROHA (19) was also a bit disappointed: “I regret leaving now…but I’ll still take the wonderful memories with me.” When asked what his best memory was, he looked toward the château door: “That’s it! That’s what marked me the most. Living, during the World Cup, on the other side of that door!” Abiodun BARUWA (22), substitute goalie, won’t let defeat get the better of him either: “You have to take things as they come. We can’t leave disappointed after beating SPAIN, particularly after finishing at the top of Group C.” For his part, starting goalie Peter RUFAI (1) spent several minutes with the hotel staff: “Unfortunately, I have nothing to give you, but I will always remember you,” he said. “Thank you for all of your help, your kindness and hospitality. Words cannot explain my feelings of gratitude.” With these words, the maitre d’hotel and several hotel waitresses broke into tears…

Later, the players exchanged many gifts with the public. RUFAI went towards three children calling him from behind the château walls: not believing their eyes, the kids walked away with the shoes of their favourite goalie…The same player who promised to give his gloves to the liaison officer of the team, didn’t forget to do so, despite a hasty departure.

Taxis and limousines followed, along with embraces. Happy with their new experience, NIGERIA will hope to perform even better next time around.