Nigeria midfielder Oghenekaro Etebo says the Super Eagles gave South Africa what they deserve in their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2019 quarter final game decided at the Cairo International Stadium on Wednesday night.
Etebo played full ninety minutes yet again as Gernot Rohr’s men defeated their arch rivals for the first time in six years to book a place in the semi-final of the tournament after a six-year non-participation.
A couple of South African players were quoted in the build up to the game as saying that the Super Eagles are not as good as their round of 16 foes, Egypt. Etebo was aware of the news and says the a Eagles have given them what they deserve.
“From the press and all the interviews I heard and saw on social media, they were like Oh, we’ve won the game we’re going to play,” began Etebo to www.aclsports.com
“They said it’s going to be an easy one against Nigeria so I believe we’ve given them what they deserve but all the same I just want to congratulate them because they’re also a good side,” added the Stoke City midfielder.
The 2016 Olympics star gave further insight into the Nigerians’ preparation for Wednesday game, stating that they were fully aware of the challenge posed by Stuart Baxter’s men, especially after the win over Egypt.
“The preparation was a good one though because we all know that the last time they won against us was two years ago when they beat us in Uyo in the qualifiers. We had a draw in South Africa but all the same, like we all know, they are a good side because the truth is that it wasn’t easy to beat Egypt.
“I must congratulate my teammates. They’ve done well and I also want to congratulate the South African team because as you can see they’re a good team and so confident with the ball so I believe that it was a good game and we’re happy to win the game,” said Etebo.
Nigeria will know their semifinal opponents on Thursday after Algeria might have faced Coted’voire at the Suez Stadium, starting from 5pm Nigerian time.
Fisayo Dairo, reporting from Cairo.
Your Comment yes, I heard one of their ex player saying we cannot march their skills and pace. look who’s laughing now?.