EAGLES TO RECEIVE OMO N' OBA'S BLESSINGS

As part of the regeneration of the Nigerian national team, the Super Eagles who are expected to arrive Benin City, this Thursday for their international friendly against Botswana, the team is expected to pay a visit to the Benin Monarch, Omo N' Oba N' Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Erediuawa 11 in his palace.

Team sources told reporters that during the visit, the Benin Monarch is expected to bless the team and also, pray for the future of the team, especially as new handler of the team, Stephen Okechukwu Keshi, is regarded as a son of the soil.

Edo FA officials led by the Chairman, Chief Abel Ehigie, have been making arrangements to ensure a smooth game on Saturday, even as all relevant committees have been put on alert. 'We're making proper preparations and because this is a grade A friendly involving the richest national team in Africa, security has been beefed up in and around Benin City', declared Edo FA Vice Chairmen, Frank Ilaboya.

Already, indications have emerged that the Edo youth team, comprising U14 and U15 managed by veteran Shuiabu Amodu, will set the tone for Saturday's game, when it displays it skills before the Super Eagles encounter.

The Amodu tutored side now styled Team Oshiomhole, will be made to play against themselves on the day. Two Senatorial districts are expected to file out in the curtain raiser to the Super Eagles-Botswana encounter. 'The Comrade Governor is excited and ready to make Saturday, a day to remember, because it falls on the day of his inauguration, and he wants to make the best of the ceremony', Edo FA Media Committee Chairman, Ben Alaiya added.