Thousands of Nigerians living in Canada have joined forces with Ghanaian supporters to rally behind the Black Stars as they prepare for their opening group match against Panama at the ongoing FIFA World Cup.
United Support for Africa
Vincent Okumagba, Chairman of the Unified Nigeria Supporters Club, revealed from his base in Canada that numerous Nigerian residents have decided to turn out in large numbers to back the Black Stars in their first match, scheduled for Wednesday (Thursday morning in Nigeria).
Okumagba noted that many Ghanaian fans are expected to arrive in Toronto on Monday after departing Accra on Sunday. “The majority of their supporters will leave Accra this Sunday and arrive here on Monday. They are coming in large numbers,” he said.
Long-Standing Solidarity
He explained that the Association of Nigerian Football Supporters was formed in Canada in 2007 during a FIFA event, and since then, they have maintained a close relationship with Ghanaian supporters. With the Super Eagles failing to qualify for the World Cup, all members have agreed to support Ghana and other African nations participating in the tournament.
“Now that the Super Eagles could not qualify for the World Cup, all our members have agreed to work for Ghana and other African countries participating in the World Cup,” Okumagba stated.
Morocco’s Performance Inspires
Commenting on Morocco’s impressive display against five-time champions Brazil on Saturday night, Okumagba praised the Atlas Lions. “It was a good beginning for Morocco. Many of us thought they would be afraid of Brazil, but it was the other way round. Morocco actually proved that they are an African giant. They made us proud, and I hope others like Ghana, Senegal, Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt, Cote d’Ivoire, DR Congo, and Cape Verde will borrow a leaf from the performance of Morocco in this World Cup.”
