War of words over qualifier

The Nigerian FA have upped the psychological stakes before the World Cup qualifier with Ghana by claiming they know of a plan to cancel the game. The match is a must-win situation for Nigeria as they look to become the fifth African representatives at the 2002 World Cup.

The Super Eagles still trail Liberia, who have finished their fixtures, by two points in Group B and nothing less than a win against deadly rivals Ghana will do.

The NFA now claim they have uncovered a plot hatched by non-Nigerian residents in Port Harcourt to start trouble at the match in order to get the game called off. The Ghanaians have also indicated that they intend to fly in and out of Nigeria on the same day of the game so as to escape the fury of the home side's fans should they win.

A spokesman for the NFA said: "We have uncovered a plot by non-Nigerians to cause trouble in Port Harcourt to have the match stalemated and possibly replayed on a neutral ground.

"While the police have been alerted we have taken all necessary precautions. We ask the public to turn up en masse to cheer The Eagles to victory but troublemakers shall be severely dealt with."

Ghana coach Fred Osam Duodu intensified the rivalry by declaring his side would not lie down for Nigeria even though they are not able to qualify. He said: "Nigeria have not defeated us in a decade and I do not think they will on Saturday. We know how to handle The Super Eagles."