Ahead of the opening matches of Group B, Cafonline.com has been talking to the coaches of the four teams on their expectations;
Egypt vs Algeria, 15H00 GMT, Caroline Faye Stadium (M’Bour)00
Hossam Al Badri (Head Coach, Egypt)
It will be a very difficult match. There is always a tradition in matches between the two sides, at any level. A very difficult match to start a competition with, but we are hoping for a positive start. We had a few injuries, Saleh Gomaa, who is out and the replacement is equally capable. We are looking forward to a good game against Algeria.
Egypt vs Algeria, 15H00 GMT, Caroline Faye Stadium (M’Bour)00
Hossam Al Badri (Head Coach, Egypt)
It will be a very difficult match. There is always a tradition in matches between the two sides, at any level. A very difficult match to start a competition with, but we are hoping for a positive start. We had a few injuries, Saleh Gomaa, who is out and the replacement is equally capable. We are looking forward to a good game against Algeria.
Pierre-André Schürmann (Head Coach, Algeria)
Our objective for now is the game against Egypt. After, we can think of Mali and Nigeria. There is a lot of experience in my team even though it is an entirely locally-based squad. I expect a tough match against Egypt because of the history between the two teams. I have confidence in the abilities of my players and that good element will reflect on the pitch. The first match is always important and that is our objective for now.
Mali vs Nigeria, 18H00 GMT, Caroline Faye Stadium (M’Bour)
Samson Siasia (Head Coach, Nigeria)
We are here to qualify for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. We have to train hard and make sure the players play to instructions. All teams deserve to be here. For us (Nigeria), we are tactically sound and know the kind of opposition to expect. All the teams will be tough to play and the best thing will be about creating and scoring chances.
Victor Osimhen has shown a lot promise, and when given the chance he will prove to all that his performance in Chile was no fluke. It is always good to encourage young players, and Victor (Osimhen) has shown enough quality at training.
The first game is always important, and you need to win it. If you draw the first game, usually it affects the confidence for the second game. We are taking no chances.
Cheick Oumar Kone (Head Coach, Mali)
Our two friendly matches against Senegal have put us in a good state for the tournament. Our objective is to qualify for the Olympic Games and that dream starts against Nigeria. The players are determined to prove their worth on the pitch and defend their national colours.
Our objective for now is the game against Egypt. After, we can think of Mali and Nigeria. There is a lot of experience in my team even though it is an entirely locally-based squad. I expect a tough match against Egypt because of the history between the two teams. I have confidence in the abilities of my players and that good element will reflect on the pitch. The first match is always important and that is our objective for now.
Mali vs Nigeria, 18H00 GMT, Caroline Faye Stadium (M’Bour)
Samson Siasia (Head Coach, Nigeria)
We are here to qualify for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. We have to train hard and make sure the players play to instructions. All teams deserve to be here. For us (Nigeria), we are tactically sound and know the kind of opposition to expect. All the teams will be tough to play and the best thing will be about creating and scoring chances.
Victor Osimhen has shown a lot promise, and when given the chance he will prove to all that his performance in Chile was no fluke. It is always good to encourage young players, and Victor (Osimhen) has shown enough quality at training.
The first game is always important, and you need to win it. If you draw the first game, usually it affects the confidence for the second game. We are taking no chances.
Cheick Oumar Kone (Head Coach, Mali)
Our two friendly matches against Senegal have put us in a good state for the tournament. Our objective is to qualify for the Olympic Games and that dream starts against Nigeria. The players are determined to prove their worth on the pitch and defend their national colours.
By: Cafonline.com
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