Captain of the Super Eagles of Nigeria, John Obi Mikel believes that Nigeria have to beat Egypt to qualify for the 2017 African Cup of Nations.
The Super Eagles were held at home to a 1-1 draw by Egypt on Friday, March 25 to maintain a two point lead on the group.
Etebo Oghenekaro scored Nigeria’s goal in the 60th minute strike before a 90th strike by Mohamed Salah ensured Egypt went home with a point.
With Chad’s withdrawal from the qualification and the absence of Super Eagles first choice goalkeeper, Carl Ikeme due to illness, Mikel says Nigeria face a massive battle against their Egyptians counterpart.
“It’s a massive battle that we are going for, and there should be no illusion about it. We have to face reality, and everyone has to give more than 100 per cent because we just have to qualify for the Cup of Nations,” Mikel told the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) official website.
“We have to go to Alexandria and fight with everything we have. There are still matches to play and we have confidence that we will earn the ticket. We also call on Nigerians to believe in the team and continue to support us.”
The Super Eagles of Nigeria are second in the group with five points, while Egypt lead with seven.
The return leg will be played in Alexandria, Egypt on Tuesday, March 29.
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