Lazio midfielder, Ogenyi Onazi is confident that the Super Eagles can handle Egyptian star man, Mohammed Salah and his Pharaohs teammates when both sides clash in the 2017 African Cup of Nations qualifier later this month.
Salah has been in a very rich vein of form since his return from injury and at the weekend inspired Roma to a comprehensive 4-1 win over Fiorentina with a brilliant brace to hand new manager, Luciano Spalletti a seven game unbeaten run.
Salah will lead the Egyptians to Nigeria for the first leg of the double-header clash in Kaduna on March 25 before hosting the Samson Siasia led side in Alexandria on the 29th. Onazi understands the challenge that confronts the Eagles and he is ready to help put smiles on the faces of Nigerians.
‘We know Mohammed Salah very well and can handle him,’ the 23-year-old revealed to SportingLife. ‘The Egyptians have other good players like Bassem Morsi who scored a hat-trick against Chad and the Arsenal guy, Mohamed El Nenny but we’ll be ready for them. ‘Personally, I’m 100% fit and have been training very well and can’t wait to put on the colours of Nigeria.’
Onazi, who was included in the 43-man squad to play Egypt by interim manager Samson Siasia alongside Chelsea vice-captain Mikel Obi, is delighted with his midfield partnership with the former Lyn Oslo star.
‘Mikel is a natural leader and I enjoy playing alongside him – hopefully together we can keep the midfield solid and make it difficult for the Egyptians to score,’ he added.
Nigeria trail Egypt by two points in Group G after beating Chad 2-0 and drawing goalless against Tanzania.