Former international George Abbey has ruled out the Super Eagles winning the next Africa Cup of Nations competition with the present group.
The Eagles are seeking to capture their fourth AFCON championship at the 34th edition, which will be held in Ivory Coast early next year, after winning it in 1980 on home soil, in Tunisia in 1994, and in South Africa in 2013.
In order to meet their stated goal, the three-time AFCON champions have adopted the war cry ‘Let’s Do It Again’ in their quest for another AFCON championship Ivory Coast.
Despite their mantra, Abbey, who made 18 appearances for the Eagles and was a member of the Eagles squad that won bronze in Tunisia in 2004, believes Jose Peseiro’s team has flattered to deceive with their recent performance despite ending their 15-game winless streak in friendly games.
Even with Vincent Enyeama in goal, the former Crewe Alexandra defender feels that the current Eagles group is not good enough to contend for the crown in Ivory Coast.
The Eagles goalkeeping difficulties reappeared when Francis Uzoho, who returned to the squad after missing the previous game due to suspension, committed howlers in friendlies against Saudi Arabia and Mozambique – a performance that has supporters worried as the AFCON competition approaches.
“This current team is not as strong as our 2013 squad and in my opinion that team overachieved based on the team they were up against.
“Even if we magically produce a prime Vincent Enyeama and put him behind this team, I still wouldn’t back us to win the AFCON. I hope they prove me wrong but I doubt they will.”
