Azeez Rues Black Stallions Fate at African Regional 7s Tourney

The captain of the Nigeria national rugby team, the Black Stallions, Azeez Oladipo , has expressed disappointment at the outcome of the just concluded African Regional Sevens Men Tournament held in Abidjan.vOladipo said although the team put up a good performance which got them into the final against host- Cote d’Ivoire, losing by 22-17 was very disappointing.

Reflecting on their outing in Abidjan, the long serving captain of the side said, ‘’I am not happy with the final result but I must admit I am quite pleased with the boys especially the newbies in the squad. They did really well; the boys gave it their all.”

He praised Head coach, Bronson Weir for his leadership style of openness and all inclusive style of leadership which has continued to bring out the best in the players.

The fly-half said the result was painful due to some questionable calls but admitted that referees decisions were final.

‘’All the other teams kept saying Nigeria were the champion out there in Abidjan, they believe we won the final match, but we have to abide by the referees decision and move on. He said the Black Stallions will definitely go back and regroup for future challenges where they will hopefully do better.

The Black Stallions on the road to the final defeated Niger Republic 26-0, Benin Republic 36-0 and Algeria 10-0 to emerge group leader.In the semifinals, Stallions outscored Burkina Faso 17-7 before facing Ivory Coast at the Institute National de la Jeunesse et des Sports (INJS), Abidjan.

The tournament was watched by the President of Rugby Afrique , Mr Abulazeez Bhoudja. Rugby Afrique said that Nigeria is being considered for invitation for the Africa Asia Games, base on its performance at the regional tournament.