Junior Nduka, captain of Remo Stars of Ikenne, has admitted that the team is not yet prepared for their upcoming CAF Champions League encounter against ASFAR of Morocco. The confession came after the draw that paired Remo Stars with ASFAR in the first round preliminary stage.
Reflecting on their past encounters, Nduka recalled how Remo Stars previously lost 1-0 at home and drew 1-1 away against ASFAR during the 2022 CAF Confederation Cup. Despite the desire for a rematch, Nduka revealed that the team has not started pre season training, with most newly signed players yet to join.
We just resumed yesterday, and most of our newly signed players are not yet here. We are not ready because we’ve not had our first training session, but we’ll see how things will go after we start training, Nduka explained.
In addition to Remo Stars, Nigeria’s other representative in the CAF Champions League, the Flying Antelopes, will face Union Sportive de Zilinadjou of Comoros Island, with the first leg set to be played at home.
Editorial
Junior Nduka’s candid admission about Remo Stars’ readiness for the CAF Champions League clash against ASFAR of Morocco is a stark reminder of the challenges Nigerian clubs face in continental competitions. The lack of preparation time and the delayed arrival of new signings highlight systemic issues that need urgent attention.
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Participating in the CAF Champions League requires not just talent but meticulous preparation and strategic planning. The fact that Remo Stars have not even started pre season training is concerning. It suggests that the team may not be in the best physical and tactical shape to compete effectively against a well prepared opponent like ASFAR, who have already demonstrated their prowess in previous encounters.
For Nigerian clubs to excel on the continental stage, there must be a concerted effort to improve the overall management and logistical planning of teams. This includes ensuring that pre season training starts on time, players are integrated into the squad early, and there is adequate preparation for international fixtures.
The financial and administrative support from football governing bodies, such as the NFF, must be strengthened. Clubs should not be left scrambling for resources or struggling to assemble their squads at the last minute. There needs to be a systematic approach to nurturing and preparing clubs for international competitions, ensuring they can represent Nigeria effectively and proudly.
The upcoming clash with ASFAR is not just a test of Remo Stars’ abilities on the field but also a reflection of the organizational strengths and weaknesses of Nigerian club football. It is an opportunity to learn, adapt, and improve, paving the way for better performances in the future.
As fans and stakeholders, we must rally behind our teams, offering support and constructive criticism to help them grow. The journey to continental success is challenging, but with the right strategies and support systems in place, Nigerian clubs can rise to the occasion and make a significant impact.
Did You Know?
- Remo Stars were established in 2010 and have quickly risen through the ranks of Nigerian football, earning a spot in continental competitions.
- ASFAR Association Sportive des Forces Armées Royales is one of the most successful football clubs in Morocco, with multiple domestic and international titles.
- The CAF Champions League is the premier club football competition in Africa, akin to the UEFA Champions League in Europe.
- Pre season training is crucial for football teams as it helps build fitness, team cohesion, and tactical understanding ahead of a competitive season.
- Nigerian clubs have a rich history in the CAF Champions League, with Enyimba winning the title twice, in 2003 and 2004.
