Uyo to Play Host to Nigeria-Brazil Friendly in March

Nigeria will host four-time champions Brazil in a high-profile international friendly on March 29 at the brand-new Akwa ibom International Stadium, Uyo.

Akwa Ibom State Governor Godswill Akpabio hinted the capacity crowd gathered at the imposing edifice in his opening speech during Friday night’s inauguration ceremony.

Governor Akpabio added: “I have been directed by the NFF to tell you that Brazil will field the full complement of its stars for the match, including Barcelona star Neymar.”

Neymar Celebrates Scoring Against Cameroon at the 2014 World Cup. The Barca Star is Expected in Uyo Next Year. Image: Getty.
Neymar Celebrates Scoring Against Cameroon at the 2014 World Cup. The Barca Star is Expected in Uyo Next Year. Image: Getty.

The only meeting between both nations at full international level came in 2003 in another friendly, when the 2014 World Cup hosts- composed of a second-string side- thrashed Nigeria 3-0 in Abuja.

NFF president Amaju Pinnick also told reporters that the federation, in collaboration with its match agents, is planning further international friendlies for the Super Eagles.

The Akwa Ibom Stadium will on Wednesday, November 19, serve as venue for the final 2015 Africa Cup of nations (Afcon) qualifier involving Nigeria and Group A leaders South Africa.