Sunday Mba Impresses Coach Stephen Keshi

Nigeria gaffer Stephen Keshi has been criticized by the Press and fans for taking an inexperienced squad to the African Nations Cup. 17 players are making their debut at Africa's premier soccer competition.

The ex Togo coach has told the public to be patient with the team as he rebuilds for the future. One of his rookies Sunday Mba impressed him against Ethiopia in the Eagles last group game.

Keshi told afcon2013online.com: '' Sunday Mba was outstanding in midfield and his introduction is part of my plan to build the team around young players and experienced players like Joseph Yobo, Victor Enyeama and John Obi Mikel.''

And against one of the tournament favorites Ivory Coast on Sunday, Keshi is confident his boys can cause an upset.

He said: ''Our next match is against favourites, Cote d’Ivoire. It will be us or them. There will be no second chance. I have a plan in my head and I need to work on it in order to make sure it comes right. This is a matter between me and my player, just us.''