Categories: News

Why Super Eagles flopped in first half – Mikel

Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi has revealed why Super Eagles flopped in the opening 45 minute against Argentina in their pre-World Cup friendly match on Tuesday in Russia.

The captain highlighted the fact that Coach Gernot Rohr implored a 3-5-2 formation in the first half, which saw the Super Eagles trailed by two goals in the opening 36 minutes.

But the second half was a different ball game entirely.

”We played under the new system. We are not used to it, it needs to be studied. But any class team should have several tactical schemes,” Mikel said at the post-match press conference attended by  Sport-Express Russia.

”At the beginning of the game, we did not look convincing because we needed time to get into the game.

”During the break, the coach told us a lot of encouraging words to raise the spirit of the team.

”Many replacements were made, new players entered well. They brought mobility to the team, and it brought us results.”

The game has helped to strengthen the fighting spirit of the team as they came from behind with two goals down to win the encounter in a dramatic manner. 

This post was last modified on November 30, 2018 2:00 pm

SoccerNet Editor

Our editorial team at Soccernet.ng boasts over a decade of combined experience in covering Nigerian football, delivering timely news, expert analysis, and engaging content. With a passion for the game and a commitment to excellence, we connect fans to the heart of Nigerian and global football stories.

Share
Published by
SoccerNet Editor

Recent Posts

Premier League clubs eyeing Lazio and Nigeria midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

Super Eagles midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru has reportedly caught the attention of English Premier League clubs… Read More

48 minutes ago

“No country can stand against us” – Omeruo praises Eguavoen for Super Eagles’ growth, backs Chelle for success

Super Eagles and Kasımpaşa defender, Kenneth Josiah Omeruo, has backed Nigeria's new coach, Eric Chelle,… Read More

2 hours ago

Maduka Okoye in hot soup: Super Eagles star under investigation over alleged betting scandal

Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye could be in trouble in Italy as he is currently… Read More

3 hours ago

“Nigeria is a wounded lion” – Zimbabwe coach warns of Super Eagles threat ahead of World Cup qualifiers

Zimbabwe coach Michael Nees expects Nigeria's Super Eagles to play with renewed ferocity when the… Read More

4 hours ago

Sevilla: Chidera Ejuke and Kelechi Iheanacho to return to action at Girona

Super Eagles stars Chidera Ejuke and Kelechi Iheanacho are set to return to action for… Read More

4 hours ago