Nigeria’s Mikel John Obi (C) celebrates with teammates William Ekong (L) and Odion Ighalo after scoring a goal during the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying football match between Nigeria and Cameroon at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, southern Nigeria, on September 1, 2017. / AFP PHOTO
Super Eagles’ Captain, John Obi Mikel believes Zambia’s new found spirit in their FIFA 2018 World Cup qualification campaign will be suppressed when they face the Super Eagles in a group B tie October 7 in Uyo.
Mikel Obi
Mikel, though acknowledged that the Zambians will not be push overs, submitted that the Eagles have the commitment and the professionalism to get the job done.
“I must admit that I applaud the resurgence of the Zambians this late in the qualifiers.
Beating Algeria home and away is no mean feat. We will take them very serious on October 7 because they clearly have a new spirit. It is time we wrap this up.
“We have all shown professionalism, dedication and determination to be at the pole position in a group tagged ‘Group of Death.’ “Commendations must go to the entire team and the Coach, but we must finish it up in Uyo and secure our ticket right there,” he said.
Also speaking, Super Eagles keeper, Ikechukwu Ezenwa submitted that it was too late for the Chipolopolo to find their rhythm.
“I think it’s too late for Zambia to start dreaming for the 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification ticket. The qualification race commenced at the same time for everyone and here we are at the summit of the group.
“It will be most unfair for Zambia or any other person to think that we will allow the golden opportunity to slip off our hands,” he stressed.
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