Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle has urged Nigeria to maintain a strong mentality and avoid complacency when they face Guinea-Bissau in their second 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixture in Bissau on Tuesday, Trybal News reports.
The three-time African champions opened their campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar in Uyo, while Guinea-Bissau also began their qualifying campaign on a winning note, defeating Tanzania 2-0 away from home.
The results have set up an early meeting between two sides with three points apiece, making Tuesday’s encounter an important contest in the race for the group’s qualifying place.
Chelle, who has followed Guinea-Bissau’s development in recent years, said the Super Eagles are fully aware of the challenge awaiting them at the 24 de Setembro Stadium.
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 tomorrow,” Chelle said during Monday’s pre-match press conference.
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.”
Guinea-Bissau’s 2-0 win over Tanzania was secured through goals from Franculino Djú and Mama Baldé, giving the Djurtus an early advantage in the group.
Nigeria, meanwhile, had to come from behind against Madagascar after conceding first. George Ilenikhena restored parity before Moses Usor completed the comeback to give Chelle a winning start to his competitive campaign with the Super Eagles.
The Nigerian coach has also refused to make the condition of the playing surface at the 24 de Setembro Stadium an issue, insisting that his players must adapt to the conditions.
The Super Eagles completed their final official training session at the match venue on Monday evening, with all 24 invited players taking part despite a light shower of rain.
With both sides entering the fixture on the back of victories, Tuesday’s encounter presents Nigeria with an opportunity to strengthen their position in the group, while Guinea-Bissau will look to build on their impressive away victory and make home advantage count.
