Matano backs limping African giants to regroup and shine at AFCON

Tusker head coach Robert Matano has tipped traditional African heavyweights to shine in the ongoing African Cup of Nations despite their disappointing start to the tournament in Ivory Coast.

Nigeria were forced to a one-all draw with Equatorial Guinea in the opener before beating hosts Ivory Coast 1-0 while Ghana suffered a 1-0 beating from Cape Verde and were held to a one-all draw against Egypt.

Five-time champions Cameroon were held to a one-all draw by Guinea in their opening match, but Matano feels they have the necessary experience to overcome the slow start.

"It will be very difficult for them because they were uninspiring in their opening matches, but we can't rule them out for now. They can surely re-group and return to the top as far as this tournament is concerned.

“They have the necessary experience to turn things around and they understand how to maneuver through at this level. Don't rule them out, although every tournament has got its surprises," assessed Matano.

In the same breath, Matano feels that Arab teams from North Africa are having it rough as other teams have studied their style.

"The more you dominate the more other teams get time to study your tricks and style. Teams have improved immensely especially with most having players in European clubs. With a better technical ability, it is easier to deal with the North African teams like Egypt, Tunisa, Algeria and Morocco, than it was before.”

Cameroon will play their last group match against Gambia on Jan 23 while Ghana will be required to beat Mozambique on January 22 for them to have a chance of advancing.

Nigeria will battle Guinea Bissau on January 22 a match that only a draw will put them through to the next round of 16.