Last Friday, 10th February Nigerian football community celebrated the 10th year anniversary the Super Eagles of Nigeria last won the AFCON.
The 2013 AFCON in South Africa which was the first Nations cup won by the country in almost three decades was an heroic feat as former gaffer, Stephen Keshi made history as the first Nigerian manager to win both as a player and Coach.
The Eagles were crowned champions after Sunday Mba’s 40th minute strike defeated Burkina Faso at the FNB Stadium in Johannesburg.
Meanwhile, 10 years later, the Super Eagles have failed to make a difference at the African senior Men’s competition.
Having failed to qualify in two consecutive events, 2015 and 2017, they lost a crucial Semifinal berth to Algeria to later clinch Bronze with a victory over Tunisia at the third place in 2019.
However, the Carthage Eagles of Tunisia eliminated Nigeria in the round of 16 tie last year in Cameroon.
Having experienced several setbacks at different footballing competitions, the Head Coach of the Super Eagles, Jose Peserio has assured Nigerians of a fresh start for the Men’s national team.
While speaking with Brace Radio correspondent in an interview during his NPFL tour in Akure during Sunshine Stars against Niger Tornadoes’ game, Peserio stressed that his goal is to win the next AFCON in Ivory Coast.
Recall that Nigeria have won the last two games played in the qualifiers to secure the top spot of the Group A table. During their last game which was against Sao Tome and Principe, Nigeria recorded their first highest scoring game, 10 goals after two decades.
“We have one goal which is to win the next AFCON and I repeat many times. Of course it’s my goal and if I can’t share my experience then I can’t do it.”
Peserio, who had lost his last three friendlies, added that what matters to him is securing a healthy relationship with his players.
“Forget side attractions, I am here for them. I think all I need is to choose the best and also make the best relationships with my players and treat the fans and media well.”
He continued, “I feel we need to improve our league, competition, our information, our facilities, support for media, players, etc.”
“I hope to see more matches, it’s in my program and goal. To discover better facilities, players and follow the media also.
I love to visit new places and that made me visit Kwara last season,” he concluded.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s next game is a double-cracker against Guinea-Bissau next month in Abuja on the 20th and the reverse fixture seven days later.
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