adminABUJA. — Head coach of the Nigeria national team, Stephen Keshi insists he still does not have a team with just days to the commencement of the 2014 African Nations Championship in South Africa. Keshi watched from the dugout on Saturday as the Super Eagles defeated Ethiopia’s Walya Ibex 2-1 in their latest build-up game for the Chan, decided at the Abuja National Stadium.
The Nigeria gaffer was full of praise for his charges following the win against the Ethiopians but warned that expectation levels must not be placed at the rafters.
“I know there is still more work to be done in the team. And I continue to maintain that I still do not have a team because it is not possible to build a team for a major tournament in three weeks.
Not even (Fabio) Capello or (Arsene) Wenger can do that,” Keshi told reporters after Saturday’s game.
He noted that the win was important for their preparations for the Chan against a side he rates highly.
“I have to praise my boys for beating the Ethiopians. This is a team that has been together for the past six years.
“So, the boys did well, though, they sort of got tired in the second half but they really did their best and I feel they will get better by the time the competition begins,” he said. The Super Eagles will begin their preliminary campaign at the 2014 Chan on January 11 against Mali in Cape Town. — SuperSport
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