FIFA Confederations Cup 2013
By EMMA NJOKU
Henry Nwosu (MON) believes that the Stephen Keshi-tutored Super Eagles could replicate the form that saw it lift the Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa early this year at the FIFA Confederations Cup billed to kick off on June 15 in Brazil.
Nwosu, who was speaking on Nigeria's chance at the intercontinental championship, tipped the African champion to reach the semi-final, although he expressed reservations over the team's preparation for the tournament.
"If there's anybody that believed in the Super Eagles before the Nations Cup in South Africa, I was the one; and I'm happy that the team proved me right," he said.
"It's unfortunate that we did not prepare adequately for the FIFA Confederations Cup in Brazil even though the players have been active in their respective clubs. However, the strength of the team is the players' determination coupled with the perfect blending of the home and foreign-based players.
"But that is not to say that we have arrived. The team is still work in progress and I believe that it could get better. However, I'm optimistic that Super Eagles will do well in the Confederations Cup. I'm not saying that they must win the trophy, but I tip them to reach the semi-finals," Nwosu predicted.
The former Green Eagles' playmaker regretted the absence of striker Emmanuel Emenike and influential midfielder, Victor Moses due to injuries; a situation he said would reduce the fear factor on Nigeria's opponents at the tournament.
"My only regret is that we will miss Emmanuel Emenike and Victor Moses due to injuries. Their absence will reduce the fear factor on our opponents considering the key roles they played towards Nigeria's triumph at the last Africa Cup of Nations in South Africa. I pray we have a good replacement for them," he concluded.
Meanwhile, Nwosu has showered encomia on the Stephen Keshi-tutored squad last over Wednesday's victory against Kenya's Harambee Stars in Nairobi in their Group F qualifying tie for next year's World Cup in Brazil. He charged the Super Eagles to go to Namibia with the same determination with which they played in Nairobi when they take on the Brave Warriors in Windhoek next Wednesday in another World Cup qualifier.
Via: Sun News Online