"We have a good team": Asisat Oshoala backs Nigeria to win AFCON 2023
FootballAFCON 2023: Peseiro Says Harsh Weather Won’t Be an Excuse for Super Eagles
- Jose Peseiro has backed the Super Eagles to adapt quickly in Ivory Coast
- Nigeria arrived in the host nation on Wednesday ahead of the 2023 AFCON
- The Super Eagles will kick off their continental campaign on January 14
Nigeria’s quest to win a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title will kick off this weekend when the Super Eagles trade tackles against Equatorial Guinea on Sunday, January 14.
The team, led by manager Jose Peseiro, arrived in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, on Wednesday, January 10 and had their first training session as preparations for the AFCON hit final gear.
According to the Daily Post, Peseiro has stated the Super Eagles are prepared to succeed in Ivory Coast and reiterated that harsh weather cannot be used as an excuse for failure.
"We cannot give excuses about the weather; we need to put in our focus, adapt well, and do our best ahead of the first match, which is very important for us."
The Super Eagles have failed to win the AFCON since Stephen Keshi led the team to the title in 2013, defeating Burkina Faso 1-0 in the final.
Peseiro sends warning to Equatorial Guinea
Meanwhile, ahead of their opening Group A game against Equatorial Guinea, Peseiro has stated that the Super Eagles are in Ivory Coast to win, Soccernet reports.
The former FC Porto manager stated he wants Nigeria to start the tournament on the front foot, given that they are up against a team with a strong AFCON history.
The Super Eagles’ form heading to AFCON 2023 has caused concern after suffering a 2-0 loss in a friendly days before travelling to Ivory Coast for the tournament.
Ideye offers Super Eagles advice
Sports Brief previously reported that Brown Ideye, a former Super Eagles star and 2013 AFCON winner, has provided crucial advice to Jose Peseiro's team as Nigeria prepares for the 2023 AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast.
The former West Brom attacker believes his country has quality players but not a team, stating the Nigerian squad lacked discipline and passion for the country, casting doubts over their ability to win the trophy this time.