‘We are going to do everything to win against Nigeria’

Cape Verde defender Ianique dos Santos Tavares, commonly known as Stopira has said the Blue Sharks are already in Lagos ahead of Tuesday’s eagerly-anticipated World Cup qualifier with Nigeria, adding that his side is confident about securing victory.

Victory for Cape Verde against Nigeria will send them through to the World Cup play-offs. But Nigeria, who defeated the Blue Sharks 2-1 in their last meeting in Mindelo back in September, need just a point to progress to the play-offs.

Stopira acknowledged that the Super Eagles are a strong side, but noted that they are “going to do everything to win.”

“We are here in Lagos preparing for tomorrow’s game,” the 33-year-old defender, who scored his side’s second goal in their 2-1 win against Central African Republic on Saturday, said. “It’s going to be a very tough game for us. We play against a very strong side, that is Nigeria.

“But our confidence is high because we believe we can do something tomorrow [Tuesday] – to qualify. And we are going to do everything to win.

“We respect Nigeria because they’re a very good team and they have very good players, but for us, it’s a big chance to qualify so we are going [to get it]. The 33 year old Videoton FC of Hungary defender told Omasports exclusively.

Nigeria, who are top of Group C with 12 points, will face second-placed Cape Verde – who are on 10 points – at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos on Tuesday evening.