Captain Musa at Saturday’s pre-match press conference. Credit: NFF.
In the inaugural matches of Group A at the 34th Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire, Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea are poised to clash at the recently inaugurated Stade Alassane Ouattare in Ebimpe, just outside Abidjan, today.
While encounters between these two nations have been infrequent, memories of Nigeria’s successful outings against their southern neighbours in the 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification matches still resonate. Joseph Yobo’s lone goal in Malabo followed by a resounding 4-0 victory at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abuja showcased the Eagles’ prowess.
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Ahead of Sunday’s match, Nigeria’s captain, Ahmed Musa, expressed the team’s determination to secure three points without apology. Musa emphasized the significance of the Africa Cup of Nations, stating, “It is not going to be a picnic. The teams in our group, including Equatorial Guinea, are strong and ambitious. We are focused on earning three points in each game and taking it step by step in the knockout rounds.”
Nigeria’s campaign is underscored by the motivational mantra ‘Let’s Do It Again,’ launched after their qualification. This rallying cry aims to inspire the team to replicate the triumphs of 1980, 1994, and 2013, with the broader goal of mobilizing support from passionate Nigerian football enthusiasts.
This year marks Nigeria’s 20th appearance in the tournament, debuting in 1963 and subsequently participating in various editions. The current competition, hosted in the country where Nigeria reached the final for the first time in 1984, adds an extra layer of significance to their quest for victory.
As the nation with the most podium appearances in Africa Cup of Nations history, Nigeria boasts wins in 1980, 1994, and 2013, along with several runner-up and bronze medal finishes across different editions.
While commentators express concerns about the team’s midfield and defence, Coach José Peseiro exudes confidence, stating, “I believe in my team. Every team has its frail areas, but the important thing is for the players to play for one another. We are positive.”
Regarding Equatorial Guinea’s moniker as Nzalang Nationale (National Thunder), Musa asserted that the Super Eagles are prepared to rise above any thunderous challenges the southern neighbours might pose on Sunday. He affirmed, “We are ready. This is a group that loves to compete, and we will give this match, and this competition generally, our very best.”
Who do you think will win this match?
