AFCON 2023: ‘To play for Nigeria is not easy’ – Peseiro

Published on by Godfred Budu

Super Eagles manager Jose Peseiro has admitted to the difficulty in playing for Nigeria.

Answering questions from the media ahead of their AFCON 2023 opener with Equatorial Guinea, the Nigeria boss spoke of what he expected during their opener.

“To play for Nigeria is not easy, 200 million football fans want to win and we need to answer with good results on the pitch,” he quipped.

“I don't speak about our last results; I speak about how we can improve our results. We create always and we need that balance. “We will give our best in tomorrow's game.”

Super Eagles keen to end winless streak at AFCON 2023

The Super Eagles will be hoping to end their winless streak as they kick off their AFCON 2023 campaign.

They have recorded no wins in their last three matches, with two draws and a loss but that will be without a fight as their opponents on Sunday are currently unbeaten in their last 10 games.

The Nzalang Nacional have won six, and with four drawn games and have conceded once in their last four outings.

Photo by Icon Sport
Photo by Icon sport

Super Eagles boosted by Iheanacho and Onuachu

Kelechi Iheanacho and Paul Onuachu have arrived at the Super Eagles camp in Abidjan in time for the team’s opening game at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. According to head coach Jose Peseiro, the duo arrived in Abidjan on Saturday morning.

Iheanacho’s arrival was delayed due to a muscle injury. Onuachu was a late replacement for the injured Umar Sadiq.

“Iheanacho arrived this morning, he came in around 4am,” Peseiro told a press conference in Abidjan on Saturday morning.

“We spoke with Leicester City, and it was agreed he remains with them to complete his treatment.

“I spoke with the medical team and they told me he has totally recovered from the injury. “Onuachu also arrived at the same time with Iheanacho.”

Photo by Icon Sport
Photo by Icon sport

Super Eagles’ AFCON history

The Super Eagles have won the competition on three occasions with their maiden success in 1980, second in 1994, and the last in 2013 and would be making their 20th appearance in Ivory Coast.

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Godfred Budu

Godfred Budu is a Ghanaian sports journalist with over a decade of experience, offering a dynamic perspective on African football, particularly Nigerian football. A dedicated follower of Enyimba United, he has developed a deep understanding of the Nigerian football scene.

Godfred has contributed to prominent platforms such as Kickgh.com and Inkandkicks.com, where his insightful commentary and in-depth analysis of both Ghanaian and Nigerian football have earned him recognition.
Known for his passion for storytelling and commitment to accuracy, he has become a trusted authority in sports journalism, captivating audiences with his engaging narratives and expert insights into the African football landscape.

Holding a degree in Integrated Development Studies (Social and Development Administration option) from the University for Development Studies, Ghana, Godfred’s work continues to resonate with fans of both Ghanaian and Nigerian football, where his expertise stands out.