AFCON 2015: Esteban Becker Hails Equatorial Guinea’s “David vs Goliath” Journey Ahead of Ghana Clash
As Equatorial Guinea prepares to face Ghana in the semi-finals of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, head coach Esteban Becker is already reflecting on what he calls a “historic” and “exceptional” achievement for the host nation.
“They thought we wouldn’t get past the first phase and that we would be beaten,” said the Argentine coach. “But we are alive and in the semi-finals. For humble people, what we are doing should be a great satisfaction—that David is winning against Goliath.”
Despite entering the tournament as rank outsiders, Nzalang Nacional has surprised many by reaching the final four, knocking out higher-ranked teams along the way.
Becker Highlights the Road So Far
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Group Stage:
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Came from behind to draw against Congo.
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Beat Burkina Faso, runners-up of AFCON 2013.
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Won a decisive clash against Gabon to qualify.
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Quarter-final:
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Pulled off a dramatic extra-time win over Tunisia, a match marred by refereeing controversy but nonetheless a historic moment for the team.
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“We always want to make history,” Becker emphasized. “Every match is different, but we only think about winning.”
A Historic Opportunity
Tonight’s match against Ghana offers the opportunity to reach Equatorial Guinea’s first-ever AFCON final. While the Black Stars are considered favorites, Becker and his players have already shown they’re capable of defying expectations.
Should they manage another upset, it would mark one of the most remarkable underdog stories in the tournament’s recent history.
