Nigeria Coach, Chelsea Star Mikel Pleased To Avoid Quarter-Final Clash With Brazil

Nigeria coach Samson Siasia and Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel are delighted to have avoided facing Brazil in the quarterfinals of the 2016 Olympic Games.

Despite failing to score in their first two matches, the hosts finished first in Group A after thrashing Denmark 4-0 in the early hours of Thursday, with Gabriel (2) , Gabriel Jesus and Luan getting on the score sheet.

Shortly after Nigeria’s 2-0 loss to Colombia, and before the outcome of the Brazil and Denmark was known, Siasia told reporters that he prefers not to face Brazil in the last eight despite the South Americans failing to impress against Iraq and South Africa.

Samson Siasia said : “We know that Brazil is having trouble. If we can avoid them, great. If not, we’ll have to play. But, with Brazil or other team, we are ready.”

Obi Mikel added : “No matter who comes, we must be ready. We have to focus on doing our job. Brazil is hard, but sometimes it happens in the group stage and the team gets better.”

The Dream Team face Denmark in the quarterfinal at Fonte Nova Arena, Salvador on Saturday.

Igho Kingsley