TheCable

Super Eagles defender, Efe Ambrose, says Nigeria is condemned to winning this month’s AFCON 2015 qualifiers against Sudan because they cannot afford not to defend their trophy in Morocco.

After picking only a point in their opening two group matches, Nigeria must win their four remaining fixtures to guarantee qualification to the finals in January.

But Ambrose is well aware of the task that faces the team, especially against an opponent who are yet to pick a point in two games.

“For me, it’s going to be the most difficult test for us as we had poor results in the games we played last month, so we need to win these two games to be in the race to qualify for the Nations Cup,” the Celtic defender told the club website.

“As the defending champions, we have to qualify, so these are games which will be intense. Sudan aren’t pushovers, and in Africa, every country wants to beat Nigeria, which makes it harder.

“We know what we need to do and the coach and the technical staff will have mapped out our strategy for us. So it’s up to us to go out there, execute it and keep ourselves in good shape in the qualifying.”

Getting six points from those two fixtures would be an ideal birthday gift for Ambrose, who will celebrate turning 26 on October 18 when he returns from national duties to his club and family.

“I should be back after being away with Nigeria so we will see what happens, but I will celebrate it with my baby and family at home,” added the player.