Super Eagles co-ordinator Patrick Pascal has told SCORENigeria the team are pumped up to beat debutants Burundi in their opening 2019 AFCON game today in Alexandria.
Samuel Kalu In Hospital After he collapses In Training
Kick-off today is 6pm in Nigeria.
Pascal himself a former international said it was crucial to get off to a winning start in a major tournament like the AFCON.
“It is always good to win your first match because that will give you the much-needed confidence going into the tournament,” he said.
“The boys have worked so hard in training and so it is time for them to put everything into reality.
“The confidence in the team and also the togetherness are very good. They are 100% ready.
“They will go out and get the maximum three points, this will boost the morale of the team.
“I believe with such confidence, we will come out victorious.”
The Eagles have been further boosted by the return from hospital of Bordeaux winger Samuel Kalu, who was taken to hospital for some tests after he collapsed while in training due to dehydration.
Contrary to reports by some media outlets he did not suffer from any cardiac problem.
