AFCON 2021: ‘No Game Comes Easy’ – Eguavoen
- Denies complacency against ‘motivated’ Sudan
- Egypt in make or mar tie against Sudan Wednesday
Group D Standings
| TEAM | PTS | MP | W | L | D | GF | GA | GD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nigeria | 6 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 1 | +3 |
| Egypt | 3 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 | – |
| Guinea-Bissau | 1 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | -1 |
| Sudan | 1 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | -2 |
Two down and one to go in their Group D 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Cameroon, but Nigeria’s national team Coach Augustine Eguavoen says no game comes easy.
This is even as the gaffer refuted claims that the Super Eagles were complacent in Saturday’s 3-1 victory over Sudan at the ongoing competition.
The three-time African kings went into the clash as favourites having silenced Egypt 1-0 in their opening match, but the team is being teased for putting up a lacklustre performance despite beating the Burhan Tia’s men handsomely.
However, dismissing claims that the Super Eagles were unimpressive and a bit carefree against the Falcons of Jediane, Coach Eguavoen said; “No game comes easy. We knew it was going to be tough and tried as much as possible to be ready for any opponent that comes our way,” the 56-year-old told the media.
“What we say this evening [Saturday] was expected. We are excited to have pulled through. It’s easier said than done. We tried to trump the cards. There are 24 teams at the tournament. Everybody has the chance and that motivated Sudan.
“We watched their game against Guinea-Bissau but today we saw them change. Complacency? I can’t really say anything, but we will discuss this [on Sunday].”
Specifically commenting on the encounter with Sudan, Coach Eguavoen said; “I think we performed well. The locals here made it possible for us. We are brothers and neighbours.
“We hope to stay here till the next round. I believe wherever we go we will enjoy the support of the locals.”
On the whole, Coach Eguavoen, who was part of the 1994 set of Nigeria squad that ruled African in Tunisia, is appreciative of the support so far from the people of Garoua and hopes the Eagles would build on it to enjoy success at the continental football carnival
The Super Eagles would be gunning for their third victory in the ongoing championship when they face Guinea Bissau on Wednesday, January 19, 2022. – With Goal.com reports
