By John Egbokhan
When Nigeria play against Argentina in a FIFA-accredited friendly match on June 1 at the Abuja National Stadium, one person who would be willing to continue the winning tradition of the south American giants over the Super Eagles is Coach Sergio Batista.

rgentina's coach Sergio Batista, third from left, accompanied by assistants

Both countries have confronted each other thrice at the senior national level, with the last being at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa and on all occasions, Argentine came out victorious.

Though Nigeria defeated Argentina in the final of the football event at the Atlanta Olympics in 1996, they are still trailing the Argentines on all fronts as far as international football is concerned.

It is this exceptional tradition that Coach Batista would be seeking to continue when he leads his Argentine troops comprising the world renowned Lionel Messi against the emerging Super Eagles team, being coached by Samson Siasia.

Speaking via satellite during the announcement of the big match between Nigeria and Argentina in Lagos, Coach Batista said they were coming to Abuja to continue the winning tradition that they have over the Super Eagles.

“I can’t wait to be in Nigeria and see the action unfold on June 1. This is a match that neither team will want to lose. Nigeria will not want to let down their home crowd.

Their fans will be playing their part by backing their team but Argentina has a record to keep up.

We have met Nigeria three times in the past at senior level and we haven’t lost yet. We will be coming to Nigeria as determined to win as ever before. I just hope the Super Eagles are ready for us”, said the Argentine coach.