How Nigeria can qualify for W’Cup – Mikel

Mikel  Obi  has tipped the Super Eagles to  qualify for the Russia 2018 World Cup.

Nigeria got off to a flying start in the Russia 2018 qualifiers by beating Zambia 2-1 in Ndola on Sunday. The win helped the Eagles to top Group B of the qualifying series after Algeria and Cameroon settled for a 1-1 draw in the other group’s fixture.

Chelsea midfielder Mikel  told thenff.com  that the victory  at  Levy Mwanawasa Stadium  in Ndola had given the team confidence.

The Eagles captain said, “I have belief that we can reach new heights with this team. The boys are so committed that it makes you happy. The coaching  staff  is made up of brilliant people who respect the players. We are onto a good thing.”

The 29-year-old added,  “We have a very good chance to qualify for the World Cup if we keep our heads and play at our best level. Each and every one of us is determined to go to the World Cup. Now that we are top of the table, we have to remain there.”

Meanwhile, Zambia coach Wedson Nyirenda has blamed  his defenders  for the defeat by Nigeria.

However, Nyirenda  insists Chipolopolo  are  still in the race to qualify  for  the World Cup despite the defeat.

 He told The Post, “It was sad, football being what it is, it went the other way. But I want to say that the defenders were  jittery and unsettled. Maybe the stage was big but it happens in football.We are still in the game, we are not out.”

The coach added,  “We were so careless at the back in the first half, we did not press on them, we gave them a lot of room and if you are playing a senior team like Nigeria with good stars, they will punish you