'THE TALKING WILL BE DONE ON THE PITCH' SAYS MIKEL



Super Eagles’ captain Mikel John Obi has declared the players have no
need to say too much before Saturday’s 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying
match against Zambia’s Chipolopolo.

The 2012 Africa Cup of Nations champions visit the 2013 winners in a
match of high importance at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium
in Uyo, which should determine the swing of Africa’s Group B ticket to
football’s biggest houseparty in Russia next year summer.

“We know how important the match is; that is enough motivation to go
all out and give our very best. There are several players in this team
who have not played at the FIFA World Cup. They want to be there in
Russia next year.

“The talking will be done on the pitch. I have no doubt we have the
quality to achieve victory, but we will not make the mistake of under
–rating the Zambians.”

The former Chelsea FC of England enforcer told thenff.com that a good
run in the qualifying campaign has been down to focus, determination
and massive support of all Nigerians, and believes the same indices
are in place for Saturday.

“We have played four matches in the campaign so far, but this one is
the match. We are fully focused and ready. All we want is the usual
support and encouragement by everyone involved, including the fans who
will turn out at the match venue.”

Table –toppers Nigeria will qualify for a sixth FIFA World Cup
appearance with the minimum victory on Saturday. The match kicks off
at 5pm.

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