Speaking at Monday's pre-match press conference, Francis Uzoho has insisted that the Super Eagles are fully focused and unaffected by Zimbabwe's build-up to the Unity Cup.
Defending champions Nigeria will take on the Warriors for the third time since November 2023 on Tuesday evening at The Valley in London.
Manager Eric Chelle has named many uncapped players in his squad, including Nigeria Premier Football League stars Tosin Oyedokun, Aderemi Adeoye, Michael Atata, Tijani Al Ameen, Chibueze Oputa, Obinna Igboke, Ayobami Junior and Elias Ochobi.
Dual-national players Arthur Okonkwo (Wrexham), Owen Oseni (Plymouth Argyle) and Femi Azeez (Millwall) are in contention to make their Nigeria debuts this evening.
In their build-up to the fixture, the Warriors have spoken boldly about causing surprises and targeting victory against the Super Eagles, heightening anticipation around the encounter.
"We are not intimidated by anybody. We are Nigerians and that’s the most important thing. Representing Nigeria is a very big task for us to be intimidated by anybody," Uzoho told reporters.
"We will try to play our game like the coach has said. The new boys have been doing everything in this past two days, and trying to understand the tactics.
"Hopefully, tomorrow (today) we will see how the game goes, but being intimidated is not possible."
With Wilfred Ndidi yet to arrive in camp as of Monday evening, Uzoho clarified his role ahead of the clash with Zimbabwe, while also expressing pride in representing Nigeria.
When asked how he feels being the captain of a nation of millions, Uzoho said: "First of all, I am a captain, sitting in for Wilfred Ndidi. It’s an honour to have played for this national team for so long, representing my country, and I may eventually wear the armband if the coach picks me for the game.
"It’s an honour to me; it makes me appreciate it and also makes me reflect on all my efforts and hard work over the past year, so I am very happy."
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