Emmanuel Emenike, Super Eagles’ very own hero in the first leg, final round of the World Cup qualification tie against Ethiopia at the Addis Ababa stadium was mobbed by football fans at the Muritala Mohammed International Airport, Lagos as he returned to his base in Turkey.
Thanks to Emenike’s two goals in the Nigeria’s 2-1 triumph over Ethiopia last Sunday, October 13, Nigeria will compete in the second leg set to be held on November 16 in Calabar.
He arrived at the airport at about 9 p.m. with his escort, Emenike was overwhelmed by his fans’ greetings. Despite the tight security, they surrounded him, and the footballer was forced to give out cash and club jerseys, while he made his way into the departure lounge.
“I find joy playing for Nigeria and making this people happy. Though sometimes I get angry when things are not in order, but I love playing for this country at anytime,”
“I am not Super Eagles’ messiah. My feat has been by the help of God, I am just trying to make myself and Nigerians happy.
“Goals can come from anybody, so I count myself lucky when I do it for my country and I intend to keep the scoring form,” he said.
Asked why he didn’t celebrate as expected after scoring both goals, he said: “I don’t believe celebrating in Addis Ababa is worth it because the job is not concluded yet. We played with a lot of pressure, we were intimidated in so many ways but I am happy we conquered our fears,
“I will celebrate with Champagne after the win in Calabar. I will bathe the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officials and the coaches with bottles of Champagne in Calabar,” he assured.