It wasn’t a perfect start in Ivory Coast for the Super Eagles of Nigeria, following their underwhelming start at the on going Africa Cup of Nations, after being held to a 1-1 draw by underdog Equatorial Guinea in their opening Group A match.
However according to their Gaffer, Jose Peseiro, there is no need to panic.
The Portuguese while facing the media said “I’m sad about the result but not with the capacity of our performance. We played a good game, we created many chances and clear opportunities, especially in the second half, and I think we deserved to win,” Peseiro told a press conference.
“If we keep up this dominance we will do well. Of course I’m not happy we drew but if the other side deserved their point, then I’d be concerned.”
The draw was the third in competitive international match in recent times for the Super Eagles after two disappointing results in their opening two World Cup qualifiers back in November. They were held at home by Lesotho and then drew away against Zimbabwe.
He likewise mentioned that the hot and humid conditions had taken a toll and the pressure from disgruntled home fans did not help.
“It is not easy to wear the Super Eagles shirt,”
“But I think my players prefer to play in front of 60,000 rather than the 8,000 we had today.” Peseiro said.
Next in line for Nigeria is a crunch and all important encounter against hosts Ivory Coast on Thursday, where there would be even more hostile atmosphere to deal with.
Worthy to note that Nigeria have only failed to advance past the first round on two occasions, In 19 previous Cup of Nations appearances, but could face early elimination if they lose to the Ivorians on Thursday.
