Ilechukwu Blames Akwa Draw On NPFL Break; Celebrates Odey, Olatunbosun’s Eagles Call-Ups

By Rilwan Musa Gawu -
MFM FC coach Fidelis Ilechukwu says his players are yet to shake off the long mid-season break following their 0-0 home draw against Akwa United on matchday 20 of the Nigeria Professional Football League on Sunday. 
MFM failed to claim their 10th straight home win this after their disappointing  home draw against an impressive Akwa United tea.
Star striker, Stephen Odey, even missed a first half penalty after a handball by an Akwa United player inside the box.
Reacting to the outcome of the game, Ilechukwu stated that his team's profligacy in front of goal was also a factor that caused them the three points but expressed confidence that they will bounce back.
"I think the players are a little bit heavy but it's all about work," Ikechukwu told Completesportsnigeria.com. 
"I am not disappointed (with the result), I believe in the team. We had a lot of opportunities which we could have converted in the first half but we did not."
Ilechukwu dismissed talks that Odey and Sikiru Olatunbosun's invitation to the Super Eagles affected his team's performance against Akwa United. 
"I don't think there's any distraction in the team against Akwa United. I wouldn't give that as an excuse," he added. 
He however expressed delight that two of his players got invited to the Super Eagles.
He added:"I am very happy, that's the most important thing for now. Because having two players out of 20 teams in the Nigeria Premier League being called up for the Super Eagles, I think the opportunity is enough and I am happy for that."
Ahead of MFM's away game against Niger Tornadoes on Sunday, Ilechukwu said: "We have to go back and prepare hard for our next game and work on areas that need improvement. I believe we can go away and beat any team. If Shooting Stars can lose 3-0 at home, it means we also can get an away result."


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