Odion Ighalo Admits Egypt Clash Will Be Tough

Watford fc forward, Odion Ighalo has, has admitted that the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Group G leaders, Egypt is a must win for the Super Eagles if they want to play in the finals of the 2017 edition in Gabon.

Nigeria, who miss the last edition in Equitorial Guinea are set to battle the seven-time Afcon champions for supremacy, as both

sides battle in Kaduna on Friday and return to Alexandria four days later for the second leg.

Nigeria has won the title three times, their latest being the 2013 edition in south Africa, and the 26-year old has disclosed that he's looking forward to the game.

"I'm equally looking forward to the Afcon qualifier against Egypt like every Nigerian,” Ighalo told Caf website.

"These matches (against Egypt) are important and crucial towards our aspirations of playing at the next tournament in Gabon.

“My attitude towards these two matches against Egypt would be similar to Watford’s. I will give my best and play with a lot of determination.

“We know the matches against Egypt are not going to be easy but with determination, we shall be victorious.

“Against Egypt, it is not only about counting on Odion Ighalo. It is going to be about team effort and I want to believe as a team, we have what it takes to confront Egypt.

“For instance at Watford, if I don't score others still do because football is a team effort; and I want to believe with our collective effort, we would get good results against Egypt.”

Ighalo is untroubled by the recent change in the coaching staff of the Super Eagles following the dramatic resignation of Sunday Oliseh, saying he was ready to work his socks for any gaffer in charge and ensure victory for Nigeria.

“I will as usual give more than 100 per cent irrespective of the fact that we have new coaches in charge of the team. There is nothing new and I would go out there and do my best like I have always done under previous coaches.”