Former Tremendous Eagles midfielder Friday Ekpo has cautioned the nationwide crew in opposition to complacency as they put together for his or her essential World Cup qualification playoffs subsequent month in Morocco.
Nigeria superior to the playoffs after a dramatic turnaround within the group stage, however Ekpo insists that the hardest battles are nonetheless forward.
Talking forward of the decisive fixtures, the previous worldwide urged the gamers to keep up full focus, warning that any lapse in focus may show pricey.
“There are not any simple video games at this stage,” Ekpo stated. “Each crew that made it to the playoffs deserves to be there. The Tremendous Eagles should keep disciplined, centered, and decided as a result of one mistake may destroy every thing we’ve labored for.”
Ekpo, who represented Nigeria on the senior stage within the Nineties, famous that the playoffs typically produce surprises and that Nigeria should method each opponent with respect.
“Even high footballing nations like Portugal have needed to undergo the playoffs to achieve the World Cup,” he added. “It’s not a stroll within the park. The Tremendous Eagles have the standard, however they need to present starvation and professionalism.”
The previous midfielder emphasised that the crew’s mentality shall be key in Morocco, the place the playoff matches shall be determined over two legs. He urged the gamers to attract inspiration from the nation’s wealthy soccer historical past and make Nigerians proud as soon as once more.
“We’ve missed the World Cup as soon as — it should not occur once more,” Ekpo stated. “These gamers should know what’s at stake. They’re not simply enjoying for themselves; they’re enjoying for over 200 million individuals who love this crew.”
