As the Super Eagles look forward to the Sunday quarter-final game at the ongoing African Nations Championship in Morocco, the Coaches are relishing the strong team character that spurred the players to the 3-1 win against Equatorial Guinea on Tuesday.
Nigeria came from 1-0 down to beat Equatorial Guinea 3-1 in the final group match. The victory has boosted the team psychologically and the coaches believe the Eagles have continued to improve.
“We passed a great test of character and the team should be commended,” said coach Salisu Yusuf.
“The goal by Equatorial Guinea stunned us because we did not expect it.
“But good enough we fought back in the second half to win.”
His assistant, Imama Amapakabo, said the team has improved by each game.
“We are improving by each game and hope it continues in the quarterfinal,” he said.
Salisu Yusuf said they have to win to reach the semi-finals.
“We have to play to win and we hope to take our chances,” he said.
Skipper and goalkeeper Ikechukwu Ezenwa said the focus has now shifted to Sunday’s knockout game.
“We are looking forward to our next game, most likely against Angola, we hope to be in the semifinal,” he said.
“The solidarity and the spirit in the team have carried us this far and we hope to continue to work hard.”
