2023 AFCON: Early Preparation Will Be Key For Super Eagles – Rufai

Former Nigerian international, Peter Rufai has called for early preparation for the Super Eagles ahead of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

Recall that Nigeria will battle host Ivory Coast, Guinea-Bissau, and Equatorial Guinea in Group A of the tournament.

The Super Eagles will commence their campaign against Equatorial Guinea on January 14, 2024, at the Stade Olympique Alassane Quattara, Abidjan.

However, in an interview with Completesports.com, the 1994 AFCON winner stated that early preparation will help the team bond and harness their plans properly before the showpiece in Ivory Coast.

READ ALSO: 2024 Olympic Qualifiers: Nnadozie Hails Fans For Cheering Super Falcons To Victory

“As far as preparation is concerned, the technical department head is to get into action and plan their strategy of training and preparation.

“The team still has three months to prepare just like other teams that will be at the tournament. And I hope everything goes in favour of the team as planned before the tournament.

“I know with hard work from the players Nigeria will do well at the 2023 AFCON.”

The Nations Cup which features 24 teams and runs from January 13 until February 11, will see the winners and runners-up in each of the six groups, plus the best four third-placed teams, reach the knockout phase.

2023 AFCON Draw In Full:

GROUP A: Ivory Coast, Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, Nigeria

GROUP B: Mozambique, Cape Verde, Ghana, Egypt

GROUP C: Gambia, Guinea, Cameroon, Senegal

GROUP D: Angola, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, Algeria

GROUP E: Namibia, South Africa, Mali, Tunisia

GROUP F: Tanzania, Zambia, DR Congo, Morocco.