By Amosu Adeboye, LAGOS
Super Eagles defender William Troost-Ekong expects a tough a battle in the side’s quarterfinal clash against the Bafana Bafana of South Africa on Wednesday but insists they will give their all to win the game.
Gernot Rohr’s men booked a spot in the last eight following a thrilling 3-2 win against defending champions, the Indomitable Lions in their second fixture at the Alexandria Stadium last Saturday.
Now, they have to scale past the South Africans in order to secure a berth in the semi-final and Troost-Ekong believes the task is achievable.
“We met South Africa in the qualifiers, they beat us at home and we played draw in their place. This time around, it will not be easier either. It will be a tough game,”Troost-Ekong stated.
“The win against Cameroon has surely lifted us up again and I must say everyone is looking forward to the game against South Africa. It is going to be a game between two opponents who each other very well.
“Our target is to win the game and we will push hard to beat them. They too have good confidence now after their win against against Egypt which will make the game more interesting. “
With some pundits already backing the Super Eagles to win the game citing the gulf in class between both teams as basis of their argument, Troost-Ekong insisted that the Super Eagles remain cautious ahead of the game.
“We have seen big teams lost to small teams. Egypt and Morocco are out. Madagascar taught us a lesson too, so we don’t see ourselves as favourites against South Africa.
“They beat the hosts which is enough reason to respect them and prepare very well before the game.”