Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr has admitted he is wary of the threat posed by both Egypt and Morocco at this year’s Africa Cup of Nations, which has left him ruling out his team as one of the favourites.
Although the France-German tactician added that he believes his side will go far at Egypt 2019, he hinted that they might have to settle for third spot behind the host country and their fellow-North Africans.
Sports247.ng reports that Rohr is giving the odds to Egypt as hosts of the continental soccer showpiece and to Morocco as Africa’s top team of the moment, according to FIFA’s monthly global rankings.
He, however, interjected that the Eagles’ array of young players will give their best to create a bold impression and make marks for themselves, which should also see them go far in the upcoming championship.
Rohr espoused: “It is not easy to go to a major tournament and win, especially when we don’t have a player playing in the champions league.
“Morocco are currently number one in Africa by the latest FIFA ranking. Egypt will be playing at home, with a large home crowd behind them.
“I am very optimistic that we will do very well and challenge for the cup, but the main favourites are Egypt and Morocco.
“We have a big chance to go far at AFCON in Egypt, because since the last World Cup, I see the team has improved.”
