3rd September, 2010
Nigeriaâ€
The match, slated for the UJ Esuene Stadium in Calabar, Cross River State, will be Eaglesâ€
Defender Joseph Yobo, who just moved to Fernabache of Turkey from Everton on loan, is expected to lead the Nigerian team against Madagascar.
Caretaker Coach, Austin Eguavoen has all the 24 players he invited for the clash in camp and are perfecting strategies in Calabar right now.
West Brom of Englandâ€
“We players must give our best in Sundayâ€
“The Eagles really messed up in South Africa and our poor performance was a wake-up call to the players home and abroad. Thatâ€
Kalu Uche, who scored a goal each against Greece and South Korea at the World Cup, says the Eagles plan to begin their Nations Cup qualifying campaign on a sound note. “We are in a new mood to play Sundayâ€
The result of the match will go a long way in restoring the pride of our nation in international football. For me, I will always give my best and my expectation is to see our country come tops after the clash in Calabar.â€
Coach Eguavoen has challenged the team to play a positive game against Madagascar, saying the players must have a winning mentality if they hope to start the qualifiers well.
Eguavoen is likely to maintain his regulars, meaning that the number one shirt will be handed over to goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama while Yobo and Danny Shittu would pair as usual in the center defense.
Chidi Odiah is expected to play against Madagascar along with Sam Sodje and the other defenders, while Chelseaâ€
The coach has attacking options in Obafemi Martins, Michael Eneramo, Osaze, Solomon Okoronkwo and Ahmed Musa.
—Tunde  Oyedele