Former Super Eagles defender, Godwin Okpara has added his voice to Nigerians cautioning the Gernot Rohr handled Super Eagles squad against complacency ahead of the Egypt 2019 AFCON starting in June.
Nigeria appear clear favourites after the three-time African champions were drawn in Group B of the African Football rendezvous alongside Sylli Nacionale of Guinea, Burundi and Madagascar last Friday in Egypt.
Okpara who grabbed a silver medal with the Super Eagles at Ghana-Nigeria 2000, informed Footballlive.ng that Eagles got a fair draw, but taking Guinea, Burundi and Madagascar for granted would result to monumental gloom.
“There are no minnows in football, hence Super Eagles must not take Guinea, Burundi and Madagascar for granted.
“They all qualified for Egypt 2019 because they are good team. It would be a big mistake if particularly Burundi and Madagascar are underrated just because they’re debutants,” he said.
“My appeal to the Super Eagles is that group games against Guinea, Burundi and Madagascar should be played like final games. Remember that national pride is at stake so Nigerian opponents would put in everything to leave good impression in Egypt. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) must not joke with preparations. Adequate preparations and quality friendly matches are vital,” concluded the former Paris Saint Germain of France and Standard Liège of Belgium player.
