Bryan Idowu, Super Eagles left back on Monday said his teammates are prepared to send Lionel Messi packing and make Tuesday’s game his last FIFA World Cup in Russia.
Nigeria need at least a draw against Argentina to book their place in knockout round giving that Iceland don’t get a big win over Croatia. While Argentina need to defeat Nigeria with more goals to keep their World Cup hope alive.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday at St. Petersburg, Idowu said the team has only one option and that is to defeat Argentina and send Messi to football retirement.
“Tuesday’s match has to be his last World Cup game for Messi and Argentina in Russia,” he told accredited international reporters.
“The match at Saint Petersburg Stadium marks the fifth World Cup clash between Argentina and Nigeria and Argentina has won all the last four.
He added that Super Eagles should be compact, focused and avoid costly mistakes inside the box.
“Argentines are so good at free-kicks, we are going to play aggressive but try to avoid unnecessary fouls,” he said.
The defender also warned his teammates against conceding a late goal.
“This World Cup has shown that you have to be prepared for the whole game because anything can happen in a football match.
“You have to be 100 percent concentrated every time on the pitch before the referee’s whistle,” he added.
Idowua played against Argentina in a friendly match last November, coming on as a half-time substitute and scoring Nigeria’s third goal in a 4-2 win.
“Tuesday’s game is totally different because it’s a World Cup match which is crucial for both teams. It’s going to be a big and important game. For the football and for the teams and hopefully, we can get the job done and qualify from the group.”
Anthony Nlebem, reporting from Saint Petersburg/Russia
