Pepsi, the official beverage for the African Cup of Nations and CAF-organised competitions has congratulated the Super Eagles of Nigeria for qualifying for the 2013 edition of the Nation's Cup taking place in South Africa by defeating their Liberian counterpart in the decisive second leg match by 6 goals to 1 in Calabar during the weekend.

The Super Eagles poses during the 2013 African Cup of Nations second leg qualifying match with Liberia at Calabar on October 13, 2012. Nigeria defeated Liberia 6 - 1 to qualify for the tournament to be held in South Africa next year. AFP PHOTO

Mr. Mazen Al Masri, Marketing Manager, PepsiCo International said the feat has erased the ugly memory of last year when the Super Eagles failed to appear in the Championship after losing to Guinea at the National Stadium, Abuja.

He urged the coaching team to start early preparations noting that the "Can so spirit" that rules all affairs in Nigeria will see the Super Eagles lifting the most prestigious trophy in African football, a feat that Nigeria last achieved on Tunisia in 1994.

Pepsi has been in the forefront of developing football in Nigeria through the Pepsi Football Academy and rewards for various local teams participating in the CAF-organised tournaments like the CAF Champions League.

Through the football academy, it has discovered talents that have proved their worth in the world football. These include John Mikel Obi, Osaze Odemwingie, Elderson Echiejile, Ejike Uzoenyi, among others they are part of the Nigerian national football teams