Goalkeeper trainer, Ike Shorunmu, has stated that the Super Eagles are fired up for the all-important match against Congo, insisting that the team has no option but get an outright win today (Saturday) in Pointe Noire. Shorunmu’s optimism is informed by the “positive attitude” in camp in the run-in to the crucial encounter.
The Super Eagles need to defeat the Red Devils with at least two clear goals to offset the 3-2 reverse they suffered at home in the opening match of the 2015 African Cup of Nations qualifying campaign in the event that both sides are tied on the same points after the conclusion of the group matches.
Nigeria is third in Group A with four points, behind Congo on seven points. South Africa leads the pool with eight points. If the Eagles get the maximum six points from their last two matches they will be on 10 points and with Congo expected to beat Sudan in their last match, they too will be on 10 points, in which case the head-to-head goals will separate both sides.
Shorunmu told our correspondent on the telephone on Thursday that the mood in camp since the players converged in Abuja was confidence-inspiring. “The mood in camp gives me confidence. The attitude has been very positive, the atmosphere has been fantastic; my hope is that the players are able to translate this into results on Saturday,” said Shorunmu.
“The players know what is at stake, they know what to do, they know that it is going to be a war out there in Congo and they have shown by their eagerness that they are ready for the challenge. I’m hopeful.” The former Eagles goalkeeper is also very impressed with the home-based players who are part of the squad. He said that they knew this was their opportunity and they were responding with enthusiasm. Shorunmu added: “The new players have been great I must confess.
They know they are in the midst of the big boys and that this is their chance to show what they are capable of doing. “They have been looking up to the big boys who on their part have also been playing the role of senior brothers. It is a win-win situation, and I can see all these positive vibes counting in our favour on Saturday.”
source: newtelegraphonline.com
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