Emenike benched for late-coming

Emmanuel Emenike, first from right, smiling on Nigeria's bench 

Officials say Emmanuel Emenike was left out of the starting lineup in Nigeria's 2-3 home defeat by Congo because he reported late to camp.

Emenike was the last of the Europe-based players to show up, and Keshi decided to take action.

"Since Keshi came on board, players have been reporting to camp early and it would have sent the wrong message of he did not take action," an official told ColinUdoh.com.

In taking the action however, Keshi spoke to Emenike, and the player is said to have accepted his punishment on good faith

"The coach spoke to him and explained the decision, and Emenike agreed that it was the right action to take and he is not sulking or complaining."

The Fenerbahce forward was thrown into the fray five minutes after the break and sparked a Nigeria revival, but it was not to be enough.