By George Aluo
Nigerian soccer legends believe the Super Eagles would do the country proud at the AFCON 2019 Nations Cup in Egypt by lifting the trophy for the fourth time.
The legends, who spoke last week in Lagos during the Gov. Akinwumi Ambode testimonial game said Gernot Rohr has a team that can go all the way in the land of the Pharaohs.
They were, however, quick in warning that Rohr must get his tactics right, even as they (Eagles) must not underrate any opposition since none of the countries coming to Egypt could pass as a minnow.
Here’s what the legends said:
Austin Eguavoen: “I think the Super Eagles have what it takes to win the cup in Egypt, as we did in neighboring Tunisia in 1994. But they must not look down on any team in their group because there are no “small teams” in football anymore.”
Peter Rufai: “I believe in the team. The young players can do us proud in Egypt. They have World Cup experience in their belt. They have grown in confidence after the Russia 2018 World Cup.”
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Tijani Babangida: “Only three out of 25 players called up by Rohr have played at the AFCON. However, I don’t think this would in anyway count against the team. They played even at a bigger stage during the World Cup in Russia. I think we have a team that is good to go.”
Olafemi Martins: “As a Nigerian I’m confident that we will go all the way. I pray the boys give their very best to bring home the trophy. Winning the cup requires hard work and total commitment.”
Emmanuel Amuneke: “One thing you can’t take away from Nigeria is the fact that we are blessed with very good players. Players that can rattle any opposition no matter how strong. I wish the Eagles well. But as a professional, I’m focusing on my assignment which is to win it for Tanzania. We see how it goes in Egypt.”
Sam Sodje: “I m very optimistic the Eagles can win in Egypt. But my warning is that Gernot Rohr need to get his tactics right. Getting ones tactics right before the tournament is key. Rohr must also settle for the best legs based on current form. He should not pick his final squad based on sentiment.”
It would be noted that Rohr a fortnight ago rolled out his provisional list of 25 players who would next week play a friendly at Asaba against Zimbabwe before hitting Egypt.
The coach also named six players on standby.