Ahead of their AFCON 2023 opener with the Super Eagles of Nigeria, manager of the Nzalang Nacional of Equatorial Guinea, Juan Micha, has spoken of his side’s readiness to face their Nigerian opponents.
Micha emphasised that his team is not the favourite against Nigeria, but they are determined to fight for victory and earn the first three points.
“The team is in great shape, and our primary goal is to secure qualification for the next phase. We are well-prepared to confront tomorrow's match and the subsequent ones in Group A,” Micha made this known at their pre-match presser on Saturday.
Micha measured in his words ahead of AFCON 2023 clash
Micha emphasised that his team is not the favourite against Nigeria, but they are determined to fight for victory and earn the first three points.
He stated, “We understand that we are not the favourites to start, but the team is composed, and I believe we will deliver a strong performance to secure the win. In our group, anything is possible.
“We are not here to be underestimated by anyone. We are not anyone’s Cinderella.” He gushed
Micha preaches calm and stirs hope
Micha took the opportunity to reassure the people of Equatorial Guinea ahead of the game against the Super Eagles.
He conveyed, “I want to send a message to the population, urging them to believe in us. We are working hard to bring them joy and excitement through our performance.”
Micha's respect for the Super Eagles
Micha emphasised that “Nigeria is a great team. They have exceptional players who can be dangerous at any moment, but we are very focused and ready to approach the game calmly.”
Equatorial Guineaundefeated in 10 games
The Nzalang Nacional are undefeated in their last 10 games. They have won six, and with four drawn games and have conceded once in their last four outings.
Equatorial Guinea AFCON history
Equatorial Guinea will be participating in the Africa Cup of Nations for the fourth time. They reached the knockout stages in their previous three appearances.
In AFCON 2015, Nzalang Nacional were semi-finalists when they hosted the event. They also advanced to the quarter-final of the previous edition, losing to eventual champions Senegal.
