Former
Nigeria international Jonathan Akpoborie says he is baffled by the
numerous boasts of Nigerian players, their managers and fans of the
Super Eagles concerning Friday’s match against Zambia in the ongoing
Africa Cup of Nations. Akpoborie, who spoke with our correspondent on
the telephone, said the match should be seen and treated as very
difficult by Nigerians. Eagles are billed to meet the African reigning
champions in a Group C Nations Cup match in Nelspruit.
He said, “It is going to be a very
difficult game. I am so astonished by the comments I have been reading
on the game. Every Nigerian is talking about beating Zambia like they
are kids in a competition where all the games have been very tight so
far. It’s all mouth, mouth and mouth.
“Look at Cape Verde and see how well
they have performed and we are just talking about Zambia like a
third-rate team. Honestly, Eagles have not impressed me so far; our
quality is still low. I’m not saying we don’t have good players on
individual basis but their combined translation on the pitch is still
very far from it. We must recognise the fact that Zambia are a
formidable side and for us to beat them, we must bend backwards and
really work hard.”
Another ex-Nigeria international Yisa Shofoluwe told The PUNCH
that unless there is change of attitude the competition is as good as
over for Nigeria. He said the Eagles played the match against Burkina
Faso like a friendly match.
“This time, they have to take their
chances; even half chances for Nigeria to win. Eagles are good enough to
win the Nations Cup but they are not business-like. A serious team
should not throw away points like they did against Burkina Faso. With
Zambia, it is tough to call.”
Team captain Joseph Yobo, said he would
not talk much about the boast by the Zambian side that they will take
Nigeria to the cleaners. “We shall see when we get to the pitch
tomorrow,” he said.
PUNCH
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