Ikechukwu Uche: Nigeria, Ivory Coast And Ghana Are Well Positioned To Win Afcon

Readers of celebrated Spanish sports daily Marca have questioned Nigeria international Ikechukwu Uche on his participation at the African Cup of Nations.

The Villarreal forward , who bagged a hat-trick on Tuesday against Farense, dismissed suggestions by readers that Nigeria does not have a competitive team and will find it difficult winning the tourney.

''Some time ago that we were not getting good results, it was what could have been expected. The team is new but working fine. We will reach the desired level with patience and hard-work. Obi Mikel and Joseph Yobo are the key players in the team. There is always pressure. You get to the final and not want to win it,'' said Uche.

Ikechukwu Uche has tipped a country from West Africa to cart home the African Cup of Nations trophy when the final is played on February 10.

He said: ''There are few favorites to win the cup. Ivory Coast, Ghana and Nigeria are well positioned. In theory, Ivory Coast because of the quality of their players. Reigning champions Zambia also have a chance.''

In conclusion, Uche says international teammate Nosa Igiebor has the qualities to succeed in Spain with Real Betis.

''Nosa is a good player whose football is improving, playing good games. Certainly, he'll give what is expected of him in Betis.''

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