The first leg of Nigeria’s 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Cameroon could now be played at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium instead of the Akwa Ibom International Stadium according to sources in the NFF.
Group B leaders, Nigeria will host Cameroon on 28 August and the Nigeria FA had approved the Akwa Ibom Int’l Stadium for the match and subsequent 2019 Afcon qualifiers.
While some have expressed concerns over the mixed results of the Super Eagles at the Nest of Champions, including the recent 2-0 loss to South Africa, the move will happen mainly for logistic reasons.
Transportation to the ground was prime among the factors considered, as it takes 45 minutes to drive from the hotel of the Super Eagles [h/t Vanguard].
Another reason given is the none presence of vocal home support also played a role according to the sources quoted by the news daily.
However, the choice of Port Harcourt is yet to be fully agreed as renovation works at the ground is yet to be completed.
Other grounds including the Ahmadu Bello Stadium in Kaduna and the National Stadium in Abuja have been placed on standby the report stated.
COMMENTS