Tosin OmojolaFormer Nigeria international Emmanuel Okala is hopeful that the Super Eagles will defeat the Flames of Malawi in Saturday's crucial World Cup match in Calabar.
The match is scheduled to take place at the U. J. Esuene Stadium, in Calabar
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The towering goalkeeper told the News Agency of Nigeria on Thursday that he was impressed so far with the build-up of the team to the match.
According to him, this means that the coaches and players understand the importance of winning the match over the Malawians.
"From what I have seen, they are serious and I believe we will come out victorious. The National team has been preparing well and for the first time, everything is going on as planned.
"The coach invited the players and they responded in good time, I am satisfied with the list.
"Some people may not be there now, but there are other matches to be played. The important thing is that players are getting fair chances to prove themselves," he said.
Okala, one of winners of the 1980 Nations' Cup, said that Stephen Keshi and his assistants had succeeded so far in building a National team, with a fusion of local and foreign-based players.
"I urge the team to be focused and avoid being distracted by the antics of their opponents," Okala said.
Nigeria lead Group F with nine points and needs to avoid a loss to pick the group's ticket for the play-offs.
