'I will be banned' – Rwanda coach wary of speaking out on Mokoena saga ahead of WCQ v Nigeria

Rwanda coach Adel Amrouche and captain Djihad Bizimana have avoided commenting on the controversy surrounding South Africa’s use of midfielder Teboho Mokoena in the World Cup qualifiers.

South Africa are under scrutiny after fielding Teboho Mokoena in their March qualifier against Lesotho, despite the midfielder being ineligible due to accumulated bookings.

The development has sparked concerns that Bafana Bafana, who currently lead Group C with 16 points, could face a potential point deduction.

When asked about the situation, Amrouche steered clear of making remarks, stressing he did not want to risk disciplinary action.

"We know Africa, we are people from Africa. We know our politics, like I told him don't let me talk or I will be banned again," the coach said during his press conference.

"Each association has its own objectives. We know why we are here and where we are going. You have your standing, we have our standing. Each team has its own objectives.”

Similarly, captain Bizimana also declined to dwell on the matter, stressing that Rwanda’s focus remains on their clash with Nigeria in Uyo on Saturday.

"We are focused on our game tomorrow (on Saturday). We don't really think about point deduction. We are just focused on our game. We go and play for the win. For the point deduction, we will see,” Bizimana stated.

The midfielder rejected the notion that Rwanda should be considered underdogs against the Super Eagles, citing their previous victory over Nigeria in AFCON qualifying.

"The underdog I don't accept. The giant maybe I accept. We are a team that can compete, we showed it the last time we were here. This normally should be something to consider.”

Bizimana added that Rwanda are targeting maximum points in Uyo as they continue their push for a World Cup ticket.

""For us, we are coming here to play good football and try to win the game. We are not coming to lose, we are coming to win."

"If you see on the table, we have a chance if we win. We really have a chance to qualify for the World Cup.”

Nigeria will take on Rwanda today  at 5 p.m. at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

The Super Eagles will be targeting a crucial win to revive their chances of qualifying for the World Cup, while Rwanda will equally be pushing for victory to keep their own qualification hopes alive.

Adeyemi Adewale

Copyright ANS
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com