Super Eagles Captain, John Mikel Obi said Nigeria's qualification for next year's World Cup billed to be hosted by Russia is non-negotiable. Obi who stated this yesterday said his Russian in-laws who are expecting him to participate in the tournament will kill him if he fails to guide the team past Cameroon and secure a ticket for the tournament. He explained that though the Indomitable Lion of Cameroon was a good side, the Super Eagles needed to play with determination to clinch the ticket.
“As everyone knows, they are a very good team. They are strong and they play with confidence. We must get ourselves well prepared for this game and try our best to get on top against them. It won’t be easy but these are important matches. If we win both, we will be almost there.”
“My wife is Russian, and many of our relatives and friends are from Russia. They are all expecting Nigeria to qualify for the next World Cup. I think they will kill me if I fail them.”
Speaking on his return from injury, Mikel Obi assured that he will be in good shape before the match and will contribute his quota to the success of the team.
"I had maintained good form until this injury. So it was a shame. But this is part of the game and now I am focusing on recovery and on coming back stronger. I will do whatever I can to get fit to play for Teda and my national team."
“This Nigeria team looks up to me for advice. My teammates miss me and they need me. As the captain, I want to fulfil my role and help them with my experience.
I am glad with what I have done. But at the same time, I am not satisfied. I want to achieve more, so I must push harder. The next World Cup in Russia will be a fresh chance for us but, first, we have to make it there. Then the next challenge will be to make sure we enjoy an even better tournament in Russia than we did in Brazil” he added.
