adminABUJA. — Nigerian defender Azubuike Egwuekwe has talked down fears of an imminent collapse when the Super Eagles embark on their debut campaign at the 2014 African Nations Championship (Chan) in South Africa.
The Super Eagles look considerably weakened on paper following the departure of several stars that helped the team qualify for the championship.
Centre half Godfrey Oboabona has completed a move to Turkish side, Rizespor while left-back, Juwon Oshaniwa is now on the books of Israeli club, Ashdod.
Nigeria’s chances of success at the Chan have ostensibly been dealt another potentially fatal blow when news broke that star midfielder, Sunday Mba was on his way to France to complete a move to Bastia.
Another important member of Stephen Keshi’s squad, attacker, Gomo Onduku is now on the books of Romanian club, Concordia Chiajna and has also been ruled out of the competition which only players based on the African continent can participate.
Fearsome Kano Pillars striker, Gambo Mohammed faces a race against time to be fit for the championship having suffered a relapse of a hamstring injury that has now left the side in threadbare shape.
Egwuekwe is however optimistic the Super Eagles will overcome the absence of the absent stars to nick the top prize in the Rainbow Nation.
“I think we can win the title in South Africa. We may have lost some important players but replacements have been called up. The coaches have more than 30 players in camp at present to choose from so I think we will be fine in the end,” the big stopper on the books of Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) club Warri Wolves said.
The Super Eagles have been involved in tune-up games against local sides recently and the 24-year-old explained that this will put the side in the right shape for the testing games ahead at the Chan.
“The friendly matches we have been playing in recently will help us a lot. We have already set a target for ourselves and that is the trophy.
“We ask Nigerians for prayers and trust in this team and hopefully, we will not let them down,” he said.
Egwuekwe won his first Nigeria cap in 2012 and has since made 22 appearances for the Super Eagles. — Supersport.com
Online Reporter