Nigeria Super Eagles captain, William Troost-Ekong believes the team has what it takes to win and qualify for the African Cup of Nations despite the threat the Benin Republic side poses, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Ekong spoke in a pre-match conference ahead of the clash with the Cheetahs on Thursday.
The Alkholood defender stated that the Benin Republic side will not be pushovers after several meetings with them and with their Coach who has coached him as the Super Eagles Coach.
He however stated that they are ready to qualify for the next African Cup of Nations.
“Our last game against Benin was in October, and we won at home. We know Benin is a strong team. Gernot Rohr was my national team coach for over five years, so he knows our team well. I’ve faced Benin several times, and it’s always a challenging match, especially here at this stadium where we’ve made some incredible memories earlier this year.
Ekong states that the venue of the encounter is like home based on the memories the team had there in the African Cup of Nations early this year.
"We’re fully prepared—the conditions are perfect, and Abidjan feels like home to us. I’m confident we can secure qualification with a win tomorrow. We know it won’t be easy, so we’ll need to bring our best. From what I’ve seen in training, we’re looking very sharp for the game.
"The stadium gives us a lot of confidence, and we feel supported here. I think the Ivorian fans might even back us again, like last time, so hopefully, we’ll have that same support.”
The Super Eagles need a point to qualify for the 2025 African Cup of Nations and a point in the game will ensure that.
The match comes today at 5pm Nigerian time.
Uche Dozie