Madagascar will be looking to make Afcon history when they face the Super Eagles of Nigeria in their Group B encounter in Alexandria.
The Barea are one point away from qualifying to the knockout stages of the competition.
Coach Nicolas Dupuis as aware of the challenge that lies ahead but is optimistic his side can cope with the pressure.
“I am proud of the players’ performance, everyone gave their best in the last two matches. I trust every player and I know they are upto the responsibility even in front of a strong team like Nigeria,” Said Dupuis at a prematch conference.
Gernot Rohr is aware of the danger this Madagascar team possesses and has promised to take this game seriously.
“Madagascar is a very strong team and they have a great manager. They will be greatly prepared but we have enough experience to overcome in this match. It’s important to finish this group in the first place.
Head to Head
Nigeria and Madagascar will be meeting at the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time. However, the two have met 4 times in previous engagement during Afcon qualifiers, Nigeria winning three with one draw.
Key Players
Marco Ilaimaharitra scored a spectacular second half freekick to secure a 1-0 win over Burundi in their second Group B encounter in Alexandria on Thursday. He will be a very key player for Madagascar coming into this game. Anicet Andrianantenaina and Charles Andriamahitsinoro will also be the players to watch out for.
Alex Iwobi, Ahmed Musa, Odion Ighalo and Kenneth Omeruo are at the top of Gernot Rohr’s list on his starting line up although the German has hinted that he will make a couple of changes in this match.
Permutations
Madagascar will qualify if they snatch a point against the Super Eagles of Nigeria. 5 points will guarantee a spot in the last 16. A win will be a bonus and ensure top spot for the Islanders. All the same, they have made history already.
Nigeria have already booked a spot in the last 16 but Gernot Rohr insists finishing top of the Group is a priority.
The match will kick of at 19:00 East African Time from Alexandria Stadium in Egypt while Burundi square off with Guinea.
