Road to Brazil: Keshi Warns Against Complacency

Coach Stephen Keshi has warned against any late slip-ups ahead of Saturday’s 2014 FIFA World Cup playoff against the ‘Walyas Antelopes’ of Ethiopia, stressing the country is yet to qualify.

Nigeria leads Ethiopia by a 2-1 away goal advantage and only needs a point to make her fifth appearance in Brazil by July next year.

“We have not qualified but on the verge of doing so and we must not let down our guards at this crucial moment,” Keshi said.

Many soccer pundits favours the African champions’ chances of reaching the 2014 FIFA World Cup over their opponents. One of those is ex-Algeria international footballer Rabah Madjer, who sees Saturday’s showdown as a mere formality between one of Africa’s football powerhouse and an underdog.

Stephen Keshi Wants Eagles to Finish Off the Job They've Started.
Stephen Keshi Wants Eagles to Finish Off the Job They’ve Started.

Despite the threat posed by the Ethiopians, who have been together for a relatively long period of time and have blended an attractive style of play over the period, Keshi is likewise optimistic.

He added: “Gradually, we are getting to where we want to be and by Saturday hopefully we should be among the 32 nations whose flag will be flown at the Brazil 2014 World Cup.”

The five World Cup tickets available for the Confederation of African Football (Caf) zone will be decided in the playoff matches involving 10 of the best teams in the continent over the weekend.