Naija Super 8: Two reasons why ‘Always ready ‘ Akwa United FC should get wildcard spot

The National Finals of the money-spinning Naija Super 8 playoffs will be set when the two wild card spots are announced on Thursday June 29.

Inspired by a recent post on the Akwa United FC facebook handle with the caption ‘ Always ready ‘,  Caretaker reviews two reasons why the Promise Keepers should pick one of the two wild card spots for the Naija Super 8.

PEDIGREE AND PROFILE AS ONE OF THE LAST THREE NIGERIAN LEAGUE CHAMPIONS

For a new competition like the Naija Super 8, the pedigree and profile of Akwa United FC as one of the last three champions of Nigeria’s top-flight league will boost the engagement for the national finals.

The prospect of having 2020/2021 champions Akwa United FC join already qualified 2021/2022 winners Rivers United FC and current holders Enyimba FC sounds great.

AKWA UNITED IS READY

At the moment, a lot of clubs are still on break following the conclusion of the 2022/2023 season so the organizers will consider which club is ready to step in.

As seen on the Akwa United FC official communication handles, the Promise Keepers are “Always Ready” to join the Naija Super 8 train.

The team has resumed training and so will have fit legs ready to compete with the six already qualified teams who last weekend booked their spots at the playoffs in Eket.

Akwa United FC’s choice of the astro-turf at the Uyo Township Stadium for the teams most recent training session is a well thought plan considering the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan Lagos State which is the designated venue for the Naija Super 8 National Finals has a similar playing surface.

OTHER CONTENDERS 

Enugu Rangers International FC are the other big contenders for the wildcard spots.

Whereas the organizers have not revealed if both slots will be shared between the North and South, Caretaker thinks this could be a factor.

Plateau United FC, Kano Pillars FC, Sunshine Stars, Sporting Lagos, Vandrezzer FC, Wikki Tourists FC are my other possible picks.

ALREADY QUALIFIED TEAMS

Rivers United FC – South South, Enyimba International FC – South East, Remo Stars FC – South West, Lobi Stars FC – North Central, Katsina United FC – North West, Yobe Desert Stars – North East.

The Naija Super 8 finals is scheduled to take place from the 7th to 16 July 2023 and is endorsed by the Nigeria Football Federation – NFF.