The clash of Guineas:Juan Micha, Saul Coco upbeat ahead of AFCON 2023 R16

Equatoguinean coach Juan Micha has assured that his boys are physically and mentally prepared to face the round of 16 match against Guinea, that will be played on Sunday, January 28.

Micha was accompanied by Saúl Coco at the press conference.

After more than 20 years, Equatorial Guinea and Guinea meet again, but this time in the highest African football competition and in a direct knockout phase, the round of 16.

Although the Equatorial Guinea passed the group stage as leaders with 7 points, 9 goals and with the top scorer of the tournament so far as a whole, Juan Michá prefers to continue working, and respecting the opponents.

«Equatorial Guinea is not the favorites in this competition. We compete game by game, we have our humility in tact.

“We are going to prepare for this match like the others and we know that any mistake makes you return home,” he acknowledged in the press conference prior to the match tomorrow, Sunday, January 28, against Guinea.

For the round of 16 clash, the Guinea has recovered its best players, which implies that the Sily will increase their possibilities in attack.

Juan Michá is aware of this and has a plan. «We know that the rival has offensive strengths, but we will have to counteract them. I trust that I have high-level people to counteract their offensive strengths,” said Juan Micha Obiang.

Regarding the physical and emotional state of the players, the Equatoguinean coach has indicated that he has the entire squad at his disposal to face tomorrow’s match against Guinea. «I have all my players fit and they are mentally and physically prepared for tomorrow’s game, but as you know, you can have them all today and tomorrow one can have a complication. However, I have all my players in good condition,” he stated.

In this press conference prior to tomorrow’s match, Saul Basilio Coco stated that for the players, its an opportunity for them to continue in the competition.

“We will have to give a good version of ourselves to take the game forward and win the tie,” said defender Saúl Coco.

On an individual level, Saúl Coco was questioned about what it means for him to face teams that have great forwards.

«For those who know me, they know that I like to play against the best and for me it is lucky to play against the best forwards in Africa.

“That motivates me to get the best out of myself and test myself,” added the Equatoguinean center back.