The Super Eagles legend has charged Gernot Rohr’s side to see their face-off with the Copa America champions as more than just a friendly as the Selecao are still hurt by their 1996 Olympic Game’s semi final loss to Nigeria.
Nwankwo Kanu knows a thing or two about beating Brazil as he spearheaded Nigeria’s 1996 Dream Team’s attack that earned a semi final victory over the South Americans en route to claiming a gold medal.
The former Nigeria international has expressed his belief the Super Eagles have what it takes to earn victory over coach Tite’s side but that such victory would come from playing without fear.
“It will be a wonderful game and that is the kind of friendly we ask for. If I were still playing, I will be very happy,” said Nwankwo Kanu as observed by Soccernet.ng.
“For the boys who will turn up for the game, they should remember that this is more than a friendly. The Brazilians will be coming out in full force because they know what we are up to.
“They are still very much hurt because of what we did to them at the Atlanta 96 Olympics, so victory is what they will be aiming for.
“That being said, we don’t have to start panicking – it’s the same Brazil, we only have to go out there, relax and play well.
“If these boys can beat Brazil, it will be a confidence and morale booster for the team and that will have a positive effect on other games they play.
“This game is a big test for the players, the coaches and the country at large but I believe we have what it takes to come out on top after 90 minutes.”
The Nigeria versus Brazil match is slated for 1 pm (Nigeria Time) at the Singapore National Stadium on Sunday, October 13.
