Namibia interim coach, Ricardo Mannetti, has predicted an upset on Wednesday against African champions Nigeria in a World Cup qualifier.
Mannetti, who took over as interim head coach on Sunday evening following the resignation of Roger Palmgren, held his first training session with the players on Monday morning and reckons the mood in the camp is positive as his players gear up to face Nigeria.
“The situation remains the same. We are playing Nigeria and the players are aware of that. I played for this team before and I know what is at stake and have spoken to the players as well,” he said.
“First of all, it is pride you play for, secondly you play for the national team jersey, your family and the nation and that will be at the forefront of their thoughts.
“Coaches come and go but the national team remains and the players are committed to running out there (on Wednesday night) and performing to the best of their abilities.”
He called on the nation to remain positive and rally behind the team.
“We need the support from the nation as we go into this crucial game. The only thing that has changed is Roger (Palmgren) leaving, but the situation remains the same, we have to win this game and for that we need all the support we can get,” he said.
Mannetti emphasised that he is ready for the Wednesday night game against Nigeria and is sticking to the game plan.
“We have been working with these players for about two weeks now and there is no need to introduce any new ideas that can confuse players, we are sticking to our plan to get victory against Nigeria,” he said.
Nigeria lead Group F on eight points followed by Malawi on six, Namibia on four and Kenya on two points.
