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Optimism runs high among football enthusiasts in Enugu State, who believe the Super Eagles will secure a win in their last group match against Guinea Bissau at the ongoing Total Energies African Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.
Ahead of Monday’s encounter, supporters shared their optimism in individual interviews with journalists in Enugu.
However, a word of caution was issued as they advised the senior national team to avoid underestimating Guinea-Bissau, highlighting the potential risks involved.
John Okolo said he was optimistic that the Super Eagles would win by a wide margin, “if they put their act together.’’
He stated, ‘I am not afraid of Guinea-Bissau at all because I know the Eagles will beat them even with a wide margin. My advice to the team is that they should go all out from the blast of the whistle and get quick goals and never to underrate their opponent.’
Not bothered by the upcoming match, Chidinma Ibezim stated that she remains unperturbed, highlighting that the Super Eagles only require a draw for qualification to the next round.
Despite her confidence, she cautioned the team against complacency, emphasizing the importance of not taking things for granted.
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‘In football, anything can happen. So, there should be no room for complacency. The Eagles must play with full strength and avoid silly mistakes that could make them lose the match,’ Ms Ibezim said.
Providing a dissenting opinion, fan Obiora Edeh conveyed his belief that the match might present difficulties contrary to the general perception.
‘Though Guinea-Bissau has lost their last two games, they still have hope. The team will fight with their last blood, if not for anything, at least to redeem their image as a country,’ Mr Edeh said.
In light of this, he cautioned the Super Eagles to bring their A-game in order to secure a victory against Guinea-Bissau.
‘I don’t see the game as easy as people think, I will not be surprised if it ends in a draw, even though I would love Nigeria to carry the day,’ he said.
In the group standings, the Super Eagles currently find themselves in second place, with Equatorial Guinea leading the pack and set to play against host Cote d’Ivoire today (Monday).