AFCON 2013: “The stakes are high but we are well prepared” – Keshi

Stephen Keshi has said he hopes to do his best at the Africa Cup of Nations, which kicks off this weekend. The Super Eagles coach admits that expectations are high and he is aware of what is required of him.

“I know the stakes are high amd we are expected to do well in South Africa. As for me, I am ready for a good outing at the competition,” Keshi told a Channels Television programme, Sports Tonight. “We have done everything that we need to do and the boys are rearing to go and make a name for themselves. We have painstakingly prepared for the Nations Cup and we are just waiting for the Tournament to start.

“But I will not be drawn into making predictions. What I know is that we have prepared very well and the players are in high spirits.

“We are going to take every game as it comes. Anybody can make predictions, but every game will be approached on its merit.”

The Nigerian team departed their training base in Faro, Portugal, on Wednesday morning, after concluding their preparations with a 5-0 defeat of Farense, a Portuguese second division club on Tuesday. Keshi has asked Nigerians to believe in the team, which is made up of 17 debutants and six players from the Nigeria Premier League.

“We have played our last friendly and Nigerians should just remain steadfast amd have faith that this team will do well,” Keshi said.

Nigeria will face Zambia, Burkina Faso and Ethopia in Group C.

#featured