Panafrican News Agency

Nigerians clubs, Rangers, Enyimba, still waiting for FIFA’s directive on post COVID-19 tournament

Abuja, Nigeria (PANA) - Nigerian Professional Football League (NPFL) clubs, Enugu Rangers and Enyimba of Aba, recently named by FIFA as among the sides to participate in a post-COVID-19 fundraising tournament, say they are still waiting on the world football ruling body for directives on the competition, which will feature 14 other African teams.

FIFA selected the top 16 teams in the continent based on popularity for the tournament, which would also be replicated in other continents.

The teams listed for the tournament, which will hold on a home and away format, are Esperance of Tunisia, Al Ahly of Egypt, Kaiser Chiefs of South Africa, TP Mazembe of Congo DR and Accra Hearts of Oak of Ghana.

Also on the list are Zamalek of Egypt, Orlando Pirates of South Africa, Kampala City Club (KCC) of Uganda, Zesco United of Zambia, El Merreikh of Sudan, Gor Mahia of Kenya, AS Vita of Congo, Raja Casablanca and Wydad, both of Morocco.

Although FIFA said in the statement announcing the tournament that it would hold only ‘when it is safe for fans to return to the stadium,’ Enugu Rangers’ Media Officer, Norbert Okolie, said his players are excited by their invitation to participate in the competition, adding, however, that they are still waiting on FIFA for directives on the event.

He said: “It is a big honour to be nominated among the big clubs in Africa. This shows that we are doing certain things right. The money realised will be managed by FIFA, who will in turn reward each club or representatives during an award to the Champions at its inauguration of inter club tournament in the Hall of Heroes in Zurich, Switzerland.”

-0- PANA VAO 20June2020