Nigeria struggle for friendlies after Arsenal pull-out

Nigeria’s Football Federation (NFF) is seeking friendly matches for the Super Eagles after English side Arsenal pulled out of a pre-season match.

The setback has left Nigeria scrambling for games ahead of the 2013 African Cup of Nations qualifier against Liberia.
NFF president Aminu Maigari expressed disappointment at the challenges of finding top friendlies for Nigeria.
“We were looking forward to playing Arsenal and our players and coaches were full of confidence,” said Maigari.

“Unfortunately, the club pulled out and we are trying to get opponents for the Super Eagles at a short notice.”

The NFF president feels that the situation has been compounded by Fifa’s decision to move the window for international friendlies from August to September.
“Sadly, the Fifa window being extended backwards has taken its toll too and we are left planning for friendlies with locally-based players now,” he told BBC Sport.