Saturday, January 5, 2008

Berti Vogts to Quit Nigeria?

I think this story is symptomatic of the football situation in Africa. I'm no expert, but from I read and what people tell me, the problem lies in the administrative suites, not on the field.

The talent is there, but where's the organization?

Today, Nigeria coach Berti Vogts said his Super Eagles' future is in doubt just two weeks before the start of the African Cup of Nations.

Vogts said delays in salary payments were making him consider quitting 12 months into his four-year contract.

"I love Africa, but I don't know how long I can put up with these problems," Vogts said.

Vogts also revealed he's been close to "throwing in the towel" on several occasions during his time in charge.

The 61-year-old, who formerly coached Germany (1990-98) and Scotland (2002-04), nevertheless praised his team stating it was "a pleasure to work with players of quality".

"Something special has been built between them (the players) and it's what motivates me to continue my work despite the difficulties.

The following statement really hit me: "If football in Nigeria was organized as in Germany the team would be unbeatable.

"Even Brazil would have to watch out for Nigeria,"
Vogts told German newspaper Augsburger Allgemeinen Zeitung.

The Super Eagles won the Cup in 1980 and 1994, and have been drawn in Group B with Ivory Coast, Mali and Benin for the tournament which gets underway on January 20 in Ghana.

So what do you think of Vigt's statements? Is he right? And is the situation in African football due to the people in power? Or is it all hogwash?

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