…says, ‘Chipolopolo clash, a must-win’
Nigeria international, John Mikel Obi, has declared that the 2018 World Cup will be his last major encounter for the country’s soccer flagship, the Super Eagles.
The former Chelsea midfielder now with Chinese giants, Tianjin TEDA, exclusively revealed to The Point from his base in China that he would most likely drop his captain armband after Russia 2018 World Cup.
“You never can tell because in football, anything can happen; but that notwithstanding, hopefully, I may end my time with the national team on a high in Russia.
“It’s time to give the younger players opportunity to show what they can equally do for our fatherland. I’ve served the nation with the highest degree of devotion and dedication and my mind is made up…
“By God’s grace, Russia is likely to be my last port of call,” said an exultant Mikel, who was at a time, Plateau United starlet.
Mikel, as would also be recalled, was named Super Eagles captain in 2014 by erstwhile coach, Samson Siasia, as replacement for Vincent Enyeama after the goalkeeper announced his retirement from international football.
Mikel, 30, was given his first cap for Nigeria on August 17, 2005 when he came on as a second-half substitute in a 1-0 friendly win over Libya.
He has made 79 appearances since then, netting six goals. The one-time Lyn Oslo of Norway ace had represented Nigeria in four AFCON’s (2006,2008,2010 and 2013) and was a key member of the team that won the title in 2013 in South Africa.
Meanwhile, Mikel is upbeat about Super Eagles’ chances of qualifying for the 2018 FIFA World Cup after the elimination of Cameroon and Algeria, leaving Nigeria and Zambia for the race.
The Chipolopolo of Zambia will travel to Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to face the Super Eagles on October 7 and Mikel said “it’s a must-win game for Nigeria”, to give their chance of qualifying for the mundial a big boost.
“It’s a must win for us because the result of that game will certainly go a long way in deciding who gets the ticket .I’m, however, very optimistic we will beat Zambia and qualify, but first and foremost, we need the prayers and support of everyone. It’s crucial to make it happen,’’ he pleaded.
Mikel who is currently Nigeria’s longest serving player in the national team, made his FIFA World Cup debut during the 2014 tournament in Brazil, earning a ‘Man of the Match’ award in the Super Eagles’ opening game against Iran and helping the team to reach the knockout stage for the first time since 1998.
