By John Egbokhan & BEN EFE
South Africa football fans yesterday heaved a deep sigh of relief after avoiding the Super Eagles of Nigeria in the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations draw held in Durban.

As the draw was nearing its conclusion, it appeared like the Super Eagles would be pitted alongside Bafana Bafana in Group A and as the name of the country was about to be unveiled by former Zambian football great, Kalusha Bwalya, a deep breath and sighs were echoed in the arena as the South Africans desperately hoped to avoid Nigeria.

And luck shone on them as Angola, the 2010 hosts, were named as the final team for the group.

Earlier on, the President of South Africa, Jacob Zuma had spoke of the honour that the Rainbow nation felt on being given the hosting right for the continent’s premier soccer tournament.

“It is an honour for me on behalf of the government and the people of South Africa to join this special moment of the final draw for the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.

“With great excitement we are counting down the last 86 days before South Africa hosts the tournament for the second time.”

“Each match will be a demonstration that sport, particularly football, can be a catalyst for social change, peace and unity in the African continent

“This will be another successful event after South Africa hosted the 2010 Fifa world Cup. In 2013 the world’s eyes will once again be on us as 16 of the finest African football nations compete for the greatest honour of being the champions of Africa.”added Zuma.

Eagles’ can’t wait for SA 2013, Says Keshi

After being paired in a relatively easy group at the Nations Cup 2013 draws last night, Super Eagles coach , Stephen Keshi disclosed that his wards are just itching to play in the tournament.

Against all expectations the Eagles fell in the group C with defending Champions, Zambia, two timers Ethiopia and Burkina Faso. An excited Keshi disclosed in Durban that there was so much enthusiasm among his boys to participate and win.

“The team just want to be here and do well. Anything that comes our way, we will take it.

“We still have another two months wait, enough for us to put our acts together to win the tournament,” said Keshi.

Meanwhile Zambia coach Harve Renard will have to come to terms with the fact that the Chipolopolo are in the same group with the Eagles.

“There is no pressure, the only pressure was to become part of this tournament. Now we are here and we have to just enjoy it now. However, I would have been happy to avoid Nigeria,”