The three-time African champions got to know their group stage opponents for next year’s Africa Cup of Nation yesterday, and the team’s coach has revealed the preparation plans
Gernot Rohr has revealed that the Super Eagles will arrive in Cameroon six days before the start of next year’s nations cup.
Cameroon are the host of next year’s Africa Cup of Nations, with Nigeria one of the 24 countries that will battle it out for the biggest prize in African football.
The Super Eagles already know their group stage opponents following the draws, which took place in Cameroon’s capital, Yaounde, on Tuesday night.
Gernot Rohr’s men have been drawn against seven-time African champions Egypt, 1970 champions Sudan and minnows Guinea-Bissau.
Nigeria open their campaign against Egypt at the Roumde Adjia Stadium, Garoua, on January 11, two days after the opening match.
Nonetheless, Rohr revealed the plan is for the Super Eagles to play two friendlies and arrive in Cameroon five days before the start of the tournament to acclimatise to the weather.
“We will have at least one or two friendlies before the competition. We will start our campaign on the 11th,” Rohr told the media after the draws.
“It’s the third day of the tournament, so we have a bit more time, but we have to be in Cameroon on the 6th – five days before the competition.”
Rohr added that it’s important the team arrive in Cameroon early because of the hot weather condition in the country during that period.
“We will be here not for friendly but to prepare and adapt to the different climate in case it gets very hot and humid in Garoua.
“So I think we will be okay, we will see the stadium tomorrow (Wednesday). I am sure we would have a good atmosphere. The city loves football.”
Speaking on the draw, Rohr revealed the Super Eagles are in a tough group, but he’s confident in his team’s chances.
The German tactician also added that the opening clash against Egypt is the most important match, and the target is a top-two finish.
“The first game is very important; Nigeria-Egypt, it’s a very good game, and we would see, we have to finish top two in the group to go into last 16, it’s not an easy group, but we are very confident,” he concluded.
