6th February, 2013
Jonathan Akpoborie is a former Nigerian football player who spent majority of his playing career in Germany. Akpoborie started his professional career at Julius Berger of Lagos, before moving to USA. He spoke with SUNDAY AKINTOYE about the performance of the Super Eagles so far in the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations.
How would you assess the Super Eagles’ quarter final match against the Elephant of Ivory Coast in the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations?
It was unfortunate that I did not watch the Nigerian match against the Ivorians, because I was analyzing Liverpool versus Manchester City match on air. With what I saw later on the highlights, I think the Eagles played a better match compared to their previous matches in the group stage. We should not start celebrating yet because we still have another tough match today against Mali.
How would you rate the performance of the Ivorians against Nigeria, considering that they were the tournament favourites for the title?
I think the Ivoirians gave the Eagles too much respect which gave us an edged over them. Before the match, the likes of Didier Drogba and his teammates were afraid of Nigeria. They knew a match against Nigeria is always going to be a tough match any day. I was not surprised when they could not raise their game because our players rose up to the occasion. I was one of those who never gave Keshi’s team a chance because I was not convinced with their performance in both the 2014 World Cup and 2013 Nations Cup qualifying matches. But If they could continue the way they played against the Ivorians on Sunday, I see them going far in this tournament and possibly, they could win the tournament.
What’s your take on today’s quarter final match between Mali and Nigeria?
For me, anything can happen. Like I said earlier, we should not celebrate yet just because we beat tournament favourites. Our boys should remain focused and ensure that they win against Mali today and qualify for the final. Let me say this, Mali’s game will be more difficult than the Ivorian match because the Malians are very organised and physical. Our players will need to step up their game today.
As a former player, what kind of formation would you advise Coach Keshi to adopt against Mali?
I am not in a position to tell handlers of the team what pattern they should adopt against Mali. Keshi, who is the chief coach of the team, knows what pattern he will adopt when Eagles file out against Mali. He is familiar with his players and he should select the right players for the match.
Would you agree with those that believe Ghana’s Black Stars have what it takes to win this tournament?
Everybody has the right to his own opinion, Those who tipped Ghana to win the tournament have their own reason to arrive at that decision. But if you watch Ghana’s quarter final match against Cape Verde, you will agree with me that the Black Stars were just lucky to have won the game.
Which department do you think needs to be worked on in the Nigerian team?
I have said it before that our defence needs to be worked on. In some of the matches we played in this tournament, we either conceded late or cheap goals as a result of our weak defence. I think the coach is aware of this and he should ensure that he uses the right player to solidify our defence against Mali.
What is your take on the officiating so far in this AFCON?
It is a shame that Confederation of Africa Football, CAF, appointed mediocre to officiate at a tournament of this magnitude. It shows how bad Africa football is in terms of officiating. It shows that we still have a long way to go in the area of officiating in football matches..
How would you rate the 2013 Nations Cup?
I think all the participating teams gave good accounts of themselves. But in terms of stadia and the pitches, it has not been too impressive because some of the designated stadia are not in good shape.
Which team impressed you so far?
Cape Verde, Togo and Burkina Faso have really impressed me in this tournament. Nobody gave them a chance before the competition started, but since the tournament kicked off, they have played beyond most people’s expectations.