Eric Chelle has assured Nigerians the Super Eagles will take nothing for granted when they confront Guinea-Bissau in Tuesday’s crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group L qualifier in Bissau.
Speaking at Monday’s pre-match press conference, the Franco-Malian tactician expressed respect for the hosts, who are top in Group L on goal difference after their 2-0 away win over co-hosts Tanzania on Friday.
‘We respect them because they are a strong team; I have followed their progress over the years. They also won away in Tanzania on Friday and will be confident playing on home ground,’ Chelle said.
The coach said Nigeria’s objective is to secure maximum points but stressed that the Super Eagles must approach the encounter with the right mentality and produce their best performance.
‘Our objective is to take the three points, and to do that, we must approach the game with a strong mentality. We have to be at our best to earn victory,’ he said.
Chelle also played down concerns over the condition of the pitch at the 24 September Stadium, insisting that the Super Eagles would adapt to the playing surface and focus on the task at hand.
Nigeria opened their qualifying campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar in Uyo on Friday, with debutants George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor scoring for the Super Eagles.
Guinea-Bissau, meanwhile, defeated Tanzania 2-0 away from home to move to the top of Group L on goal difference.
A victory in Bissau would move Nigeria to the summit of the group as the Super Eagles seek to strengthen their position in the race for the sole qualification ticket from Group L to the 2027 AFCON finals.