Mikel On Why Eagles Were Unconvincing In First Half : We Are Not Used To 3-5-2

John Obi Mikel has explained that the Super Eagles were not convincing in the first half because they were not used to the 3-5-2 formation deployed by manager Gernot Rohr.

The Super Eagles trailed by two goals after 36 minutes, with Banega and Aguero writing their names on the score-sheet, but showed determination and grit to overturn the deficit, scoring late in the first half and three more goals in the second period.

''We played under the new system. We are not used to it, it needs to be studied. But any class team should have several tactical schemes,'' Mikel said at the post match press conference attended by Sport Express Russia.

''At the beginning of the game we did not look convincing, because we needed time to get into the game.

''During the break, the coach told us a lot of encouraging words to raise the spirit of the team.

''Many replacements were made, new players entered well. They brought mobility to the team, and it brought us results.''

According to the Nigeria Football Federation, Mikel won his 80th international cap in today's game against Argentina.

Igho Kingsley