Nigeria's Record Appearance Holder At World Cup Backing Eagles To Beat Argentina

Former Super Eagles defender, Joseph Yobo has thrown his weight behind the national team, urging them to take the game as they come and put up a good fight against their Group D opponents.

Yobo is the Super Eagles all-time record appearance holder at the World Cup, playing ten matches at the 2002, 2010 and 2014 tournaments.

"It should be one game at a time", he told News Agency of Nigeria.

"You don't go to the World Cup and be dreaming of playing in the final when you are not done with what you have right before you first in the group stage.

"Win your first game first, and prepare for the next one without thinking of the third game. It should be one at a time. I don't think it is good to lose the first game and begin to panic.

"If the Super Eagles can win the first game, the confidence and quality will build and Nigerians will see quality in them as the competition progresses.

On Nigeria's chances of besting their perennial rivals, Argentina in their last group game as well as come out top against Croatia and Iceland, the former national team skipper spoke with optimism.

"I played against Argentina in three World Cups. Maybe this is the time for Nigeria to record her first victory over the Albeceleste. If we don't concede an early goal against Argentina, we should be able to get at least a draw."

"Croatia, Iceland... anything can happen. Croatia we know, but Iceland is the surprise package of Group D."

Yobo was equally of the opinion that the Super Eagles defenders can match up to anything thrown at them in Russia, and quality-wise would be good enough for the team.

"I disagree with those worrying about the Super Eagles' defence. What is important is experience. Yes, we may not have experienced senior players in that area but we have talented, fearless young players who can hold their own against any team. I really don't think the defence is as bad as is being portrayed."

Nigeria begin their Group D campaign against Croatia in Kaliningrad, before taking on Iceland and Argentina.

Emmanuel Chinaza