We’ll beat Algeria to restore pride – Eguavoen

National U-23 team coach Austin Eguavoen has admitted Nigeria’s pride is at stake when they clash with Algeria in their last Group A match of the Africa U-23 Championship holding in Morocco today.

Nigeria lost their first two games to Morocco and Senegal and now sit bottom of the group with no point. Even with the dicey situation, Eguavoen believes the team can get lucky with points and goal difference to qualify for the semi-finals.

The competition has not produced many goals but Nigeria have conceded three and scored one.

In their last match against Senegal, the Nigerian players were uncoordinated in the midfield and recorded no shot at goal. The situation worried Egueavoen greatly.

“You will see a different team on Friday (today). We may have an outside chance of qualification but we will fight for the pride of our country; we will play with our blood and leave the rest to fate,” Eguavoen said.

Despite having six points, group leaders, Morocco, risk losing out of a semi-final spot should they lose 2-0 to Senegal and Algeria beat Nigeria by a lone goal.

Nigeria however would make the last four if they beat Algeria 2-0 while Senegal lose to Morocco by a lone goal.

While Nigeria hope to win their last game, Morocco coach Pim Verbeek has hinted he might settle for a draw with Senegal.

He told cafonline.com that he knew the strength and weakness of the Senegalese and would exploit them.

He said, “It will be interesting but in fairness, if you don’t mind me saying so we are almost qualified. Yes, Senegal need to win and a point for us will see us through. So playing from a position where you need to win but a draw still sees you through is a good position to be in.

“We knew in advance that this would be a great tournament, eight strong teams and as you can see even in the other group it will go down to the last group games too.”