Former Nigeria midfielder Ogenyi Onazi in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa has urged the Super Eagles to be at their best in their opening Africa Cup of Nations game against Tanzania.
Onazi, who was part of Nigeria’s Nations Cup triumph in 2013 under late coach Stephen Keshi, wants the team to remain focused and secure all three points to ease themselves comfortably into the tournament.
He stressed that there are no easy games at the competition and believes the Super Eagles must give their all against Tanzania, whom he expects to be a tricky opponent.
“There are no easy games in the Africa Cup of Nations, and experience should tell us that. We have lost games to supposedly lowly opponents like Madagascar a few years ago in Egypt,” Onazi exclusively told Footy-Africa.
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“I can guarantee you that Tanzania will make life difficult for Nigeria, just like Comoros did to Morocco in their opening game yesterday. Despite the loss, the Comoros team were very resolute and it was only in the second half that they were eventually beaten. Eric Chelle has to tell his players that they must give more than a hundred percent if Nigeria are to win, because the Tanzanians will come out to frustrate Nigeria and try to hit the Super Eagles on the break,” he added.
“I am very sure that will be their game plan, so Nigeria have to be prepared. We have to win our first game because it is very important to do so in every competition. Getting the three points will be a nice way to start the tournament and gain more confidence ahead of the next game against Tunisia, who, with due respect to the other countries in the group, should be our main threat.
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I believe we will defeat Tanzania, but the boys have to be ready for it,” Onazi concluded.
The Eagles will begin their AFCON campaign against the Taifa Stars on Tuesday at the Fez Stadium as they seek a fourth continental title.
