Eagles need to regain winning mentality to claim 4th AFCON title, says Egbo

Ndubuisi Emmanuel Egbo, former Super Eagles goalkeeper, says the national team needs to regain their winning mentality to claim their fourth African Cup of Nations (AFCON) title.

Egbo, who became the first ever Nigerian coach to lead an European team to a league title, said other African countries no longer have the fear factor when facing the Eagles now.

He led KF Tirana to qualify for the UEFA Champions League.

KF Tirana won their 25th title after they were crowned 2019/20 Albanian league champions on Sunday – their first since 2009.

In a chat with journalists on Monday, Egbo said that if the three-time African champions can get back their winning mentality and fear factor, the glory days will return in no distant time.

“Back then, you can’t mention just one best player in the team, everyone was good, we had Kanu Nwankwo, Jay Jay Okocha, Finidi George, Celestine Babayaro, Tijani Babangida, Victor Ikpeba and a host of other top players that scares the opponent,” he said.

“Opponents go into the game afraid but other football nations have improved and they have players abroad.

“Back then, when a team is playing against the Super Eagles they feel like they are already a goal or two goals down because of the big names in the team.”

The 46-years-old football manager also said he is ever ready to answer the clarion call if given the opportunity to coach any of the national teams.

“Better is not enough. The best is yet to come. Nigeria is my country. Of course, if at anytime I am invited to take a job with any of the national teams, I’ll willingly be eager to help my country move forward,” Egbo said.

“Anytime I am called upon to help my country, why not? It’s a privilege. It’s an honour and opportunity to showcase what you can offer to help your country to help improve their football.”

Egbo, who played for Julius Berger until 1998, made 12 appearances for the Super Eagles as a goalkeeper.