Former Super Eagles assistant coach Jean Francois Loscuito has urged the Nigerian national side not to relent in their pursuit of a 2017 Africa Cup of Nations ticket.
Samson Siasia leads the Super Eagles out against Egypt in the reverse leg of their AFCON qualifier at the Borg El-Arab Stadium, Alexandria on Tuesday needing a win to stand a chance of qualifying for the tournament in Gabon next year following the withdrawal of Chad from the qualification series from Group G.
Loscuito spoke with nigeriasoccernet.com on his thoughts from the game which kicks off 6pm Nigerian time.
"Most Nigerians that I've spoken with seem to believe that the Super Eagles cannot qualify now after the 1-1 in Kaduna," the Belgian said.
"I do not understand that reaction. Unfortunately there are two games left now with the withdrawal of Chad but I strongly believe Nigeria can win away in Egypt; there is still hope, no problem."
Loscuito stressed that despite not working as assistant coach of the Eagles anymore, he still has the interest of the national team and Nigeria in mind.
"Of course I want Nigeria to defeat Egypt despite not working there anymore. I pray God gives Nigeria victory. I also do not see Tanzania losing to Egypt in both sides' next game," the one-time ASFA Yenanga of Burkina Faso coach.