BY JOE APU
HEAD coach of the Super Eagles, Sunday Oliseh has demanded a win from the home based Eagles as they clash against the Elephants of Cote d’ Ivoire in their last friendly game ahead of the CHAN tournament in Rwanda.
Oliseh according to the team’s media officer, Toyin Ibitoye told the players that they need to improve from their last game against Angola and a win will boost their confidence ahead of the team’s first game against Niger Republic.
“The team just concluded its training this evening and it lasted for two hours. Concentration was on formation and how the players will adapt to what they have been taught in training. We’re looking forward to the game and the spirit in camp is high. We want to win the game but it’s not a do-or-die affair.
“The game against Cote d’Ivoire is key for the team because this is the last game before we head to Rwanda. Coach Oliseh is looking forward to a win so that the players are not under pressure. Though, he wants a win, he says it’s by all means as he wants to see how well the players can adapt to match situations
based on what they have learnt.”
Today’s pre- African Nations Championship friendly is the second international friendly of the team in South Africa.
The Home Eagles were held to a 1-1 draw by Angola in their previous tune up game on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, one of their Group C opponents, Niger were forced to a 1-1
The home-based Super Eagles will slug it out with the rest of Africa in Rwanda from January 16 to February 7 in the fourth edition of African Nations Championship (CHAN) with their sights fixed on a first crown.
Nigeria is only taking part in the competition for the second time after the country finished third on her debut at the 2014 CHAN in South Africa.
This Confederation of African Football (CAF) competition is strictly for the players plying their trade in their home country leagues.
The Nigeria league is not lacking quality stars and coach Sunday Oliseh will be looking forward to break new grounds in Rwanda.
This bi-ennial competition is a good stage for the home lads to play themselves into the heart of Oliseh for consideration into the mainstream Super Eagles.