'We don't know any information about them' - Super Eagles captain admits ahead of Zanzibar clash

Home-based Super Eagles captain Nduka Junior has praised the warm reception his team has received in Zanzibar ahead of their international friendly on Monday, describing it as “amazing” and reaffirming the squad’s focus on preparation for the upcoming 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN).

 Speaking during a media session ahead of the match, Nduka said the team has been touched by the hospitality extended to them since their arrival.

"It was a very great welcome, an amazing welcome from the people of Zanzibar and I must confess they are very good people," the captain stated.

The friendly against Zanzibar is one of two warm-up matches scheduled as part of Nigeria’s final phase of preparations for CHAN 2024. 

The first encounter will be played on Monday, July 28, and the second on Thursday, July 31.

Reflecting on the team’s progress, Nduka said, "About our preparation moving forward, we are still preparing because we still have a week into the tournament. 

"This game is one of the games we play just to make sure we know our strength and our weaknesses.”

With little known about their hosts, Nduka acknowledged the lack of detailed scouting on Zanzibar’s national team but emphasized the need for focus regardless.

"The team we’re going to play tomorrow, which is Zanzibar—no one is talking about them for now because we don’t know any information about them, and that’s how it is in camp," he said.

Despite the uncertainty, the Home Eagles are treating the match with seriousness, viewing it as a critical test ahead of their CHAN campaign.

The Nigeria team, led by head coach Éric Chelle, will take on Senegal, Sudan, and Congo in Group D of the competition. 

Their tournament opener is a high-profile clash against defending champions Senegal, set for Wednesday, August 7 at the Amman Stadium.

The squad, which began preparations with a camp in Ikenne, Ogun State, arrived in Zanzibar on Friday to continue fine-tuning tactics and building match fitness.

Wale Adejumo

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