Super Eagles interim coach George Finidi said Wednesday in Marrakesh, Morocco that the team needs to prove they were competitors, worthy of their place at the African Cup of Nations, by beating Ghana and Mali during the international friendly games.
The Super Eagles will play the Black Stars of Ghana Friday March 22, and then follow up with Eagles of Mali on March 26 at the same venue. The Super Eagles fresh from their second placing at the AFCON in Cote d’ Ivoire losing 2-1 to the host nation.
Finidi who was assistant to Portuguese coach Jose Peseiro at the tournament said after training with the team noted that Nigerian fans want nothing short of a good performance after the good run of form in Cote d’ Iovire.
“We know a lot of Nigerians are watching. So, we want to make them proud,” said the former Super Eagles winger.
“The AFCON is gone, and these are two games that are very crucial to Nigeria. So we will take it very seriously and make sure we get the best out of these games.”
Finidi is one of the coaches penciled down by the Nigeria Football Federation to replace Peseiro whose contract expired. Finidi is looking to prove a point that he can handle the team going forward with the games against Ghana and Mali.
“As a coach, there’s a huge responsibility that comes with the job, but that’s what we do. You have to be calm, do your job, and ensure you do it properly,” he added.
