Eagles did not shock me - Hamilton

Former Nigerian footballer and manager, Paul Hamilton is excited that Super Eagles did not lose to the Amavubi of Rwanda.



Eagles were held 0-0 by the East Africans in the race for the South Africa 2013 Afcon at the Stade Regionale de Nyamirambo on Wednesday.

Stephen Keshi's men played a mixture of home and foreign-based players.

Hamilton told SuperSport.com that the barren draw may not be agreeable with many Nigerians but it is far better a result than an outright defeat.

"I wasn't disappointed with the draw, what if we had lost the game. I think the draw is better for planning, it is now the responsibility of the coach to ensure we win the return leg in Nigeria."

However, Hamilton picked fault with the late arrival of the Europe-based professionals.

"The late arrival of the Europe-based professionals was not good for proper blending with the home-based players.

"Subsequently, the coach must insist on having them, at least, four clear days or he revert to the domestic players," he said.

The former NEPA player gave nod to the fusion of the home and foreign-based players.

"It's quite commendable the mixture of local and foreign players, it will engender healthy competition and stronger team.

"I challenge the local players not to slack but continue to give their best at any given chance," he said.