Former Super Eagles captain, John Obi Mikel has called on the Nigerian national team to block out all distractions and give their full concentration to what he described as their toughest test yet at the Africa Cup of Nations; a quarter-final showdown against Algeria.
Speaking against the backdrop of reports surrounding unpaid bonuses, Mikel stressed that mentality, focus, and preparation will be decisive against a dangerous Algerian side he believes possesses quality, aggression, and strong collective play.
“We Have to Be on Our A-Game” – Mikel Obi
The Super Eagles were recently reported to have staged a protest over unpaid bonuses, a situation that initially led to their refusal to travel to Marrakesh for the quarter-final clash.
The standoff was eventually resolved after assurances from the NFF and NSC that all outstanding payments would be settled, allowing the team to travel a day later than scheduled.
However, Mikel has made it clear that Nigeria cannot afford any lapse in concentration if they are to overcome the North African giants.
“We have to win the next game. We must make sure we come out and push the game the right way,” Mikel said.
“It’s going to be a very difficult game against Algeria. I’ve watched them play a couple of times; they are a very good team, very aggressive, and they have quality players.”
“So we have to be on our A-game and approach the match the right way.”
The former Chelsea midfielder stated that the quarter-final represents a step up in difficulty and will require absolute commitment from the players.
“No Negativity” – Mikel Obi Calls for Calm
Addressing the recent bonus controversy, Mikel urged the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to ensure that all outstanding issues are resolved before kickoff to avoid any negative atmosphere within the camp.
“There shouldn’t be any hindrance or negativity. If there is any, it must be sorted out,” he said.
“Are the players being paid their bonuses? Whatever has been promised must be settled before this game.”
“There should be no negativity around the camp.”
Mikel echo’s his Super Eagles striker, Odion Ighalo, who clarified that the players never intended to boycott the match but merely sought fulfillment of promises made to them.
Read More: “They Were Never Going on Strike” – Ighalo Explains Super Eagles AFCON Bonus Saga
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Read More: BREAKING: Super Eagles Boycott Travel and Training Over Unpaid Bonuses Ahead of Algeria Clash
Despite the distractions, Mikel strongly believes in the team’s ability to challenge for the title if the right environment is created.
“I believe we can go all the way and win it,” he said.
Mikel Obi was a key figure in Nigeria’s 2013 AFCON triumph, the country’s last continental title, while Odion Ighalo famously finished as top scorer at the 2019 AFCON.
