"That match will go a long way in putting things right for us," said the Super Eagles boss ahead of the Group C clash on January 12th.

"The Egyptians, as defending champions, will come out smoking but we will match them grit for grit."

Egypt will be without influential duo Mohamed Abou-Treika and Amr Zaki who were ruled out through injury.

Even so, Amodu doesn’t seem to be perceiving it as an advantage as he has confidence in his 'best Nigeria squad'.

"My optimism is not based on their injured players, but injury is part of the game and I feel sorry for them," he added.

"With or without Mohammed Aboutrika and other injured players, I have a squad that can cause upsets and go all the way to the final. I have raised the confidence of the team and they are equal to the task ahead.

"What I have chosen for Nigeria is the best squad capable of bringing the cup back home. Any player who finds his name in the squad got there by merit."