THE Super Eagles are banking on a midfield combination of Mikel Obi of Chelsea and his namesake Joel Obi from Inter Milan to ensure World Footballer of the Year Lionel Messi does not shine when Nigeria host Argentina in a friendly on June 1.
MTNFootball.com scooped that coach Samson Siasia has already ceded the midfield grafting to the Obis against two-time world champions Argentina complete with superstar Messi.
“I can tell you that the coaches are solidly in support of the partnership of the two Obis in the heart of the Eagles midfield for the Argentina friendly match. Siasia believes that on a good day when the two players are on top of their game, they will definitely give Argentina team a run for their money,” a top team official revealed.
“At least for now and barring any injuries, Mikel and Joel are sure bankers to start against Argentina based on their fitness, skills, strength and past performances for the Eagles in the few matches they have played together.
“Also these are players who have played against top teams and have been training on daily basis with some of the best players in the world in their respective clubs. So, playing well against Argentina shouldn’t be a big problem for them.”
Nigeria are gunning for their first-ever victory over the team ranked fourth best in the world.
Pundits have described this match as one that would really test the Eagles Siasia has been rebuilding aince he took over the team in December.
It will also prepare the team for the crucial 2012 Nations Cup qualifier away in Ethiopia a few days later.
|