Coach Lars Lagerback admits Nigeria are in a “very tough group” but is confident they can make an impact at the FIFA World Cup™.
Argentina are the Super Eagles’ first opponents, while they are also due to meet South Korea and Greece in Group B. Nonetheless, the Swede is optimistic over this side’s chances.
He said: “We have a very tough group, the quality of the opposition is very good and what I know is that all the teams want to win. But the Super Eagles are ready to take on the world’s best. We know there are high expectations, especially from our fans. If we give our 100%, we can beat any team.”
Nigeria were the first African team to touch down in South Africa after arriving yesterday. Lagerback also praised the players for their professionalism during their recent pre-tournament training camp, adding: “We are looking forward to what we hope will be a good tournament. The last few weeks have been wonderful for me – the players’ attitudes have been great. We have had great preparations.”
Nigeria coach Lars Lagerback is looking forward to a ‘good tournament’ with his Super Eagles after arriving in South Africa on Wednesday.
The Swede, who took over from Shuaibu Amodu in April and has worked with his squad only since the middle of May, said on arrival in South Africa that he considers it a privilege to be involved.
“First of all, I feel very privileged to be here and to be part of this World Cup; the first World Cup in Africa. We are looking forward to what we hope will be a good tournament. The few weeks (since I took over) have been wonderful for me – the players’ attitudes have been great. We have had great preparations,” said Lagerback.
“We have a very tough group, the quality of the opposition is very good and what I know is that all the teams want to win. But the Super Eagles are ready to take on the worlds best. We know there are high expectations, especially from our fans. If we give our 100%, we can beat any team. But I am happy with everything so far,” continued Lagerback.
The Super Eagles will open their campaign in Johannesburg against Argentina on 12 June before playing Greece in Mangaung/ Bloemfontein on June 17.
They will then finish off their Group Matches against Korea Republic in Durban on June 22.