Maradona Demands Access To Argentina National Team Before Showdown Vs Nigeria

Published: June 23, 2018

Legendary Argentina midfielder Diego Maradona has demanded access to the Argentina national team before their final game in the group stage of the World Cup against Nigeria, according to reports.

The two-time world champions are on the brink of elimination from the World Cup, and this will be confirmed on Tuesday if they lose or draw with the Super Eagles in Saint Petersburg.

''I played with my life whenever I got the Argentine shirt,'' Maradona told Telesur.

''Legends like Simeone, Redondo, Ruggeri, Olarticoechea, Caniggia, Filol, Luque and Gallego did exactly the same.

''I want to be able to talk to the players and make them understand what it means to wear the national shirt.''

The former Napoli and Barcelona superstar has refused to blame Lionel Messi for Argentina's problems at the World Cup.

''As everyone today blames Messi, I have to say that he played as he had to play and as he could play.

"It is difficult to solve your teammates' problems,'' added Maradona.

Croatia have already confirmed their place in the last sixteen, while Argentina, Nigeria and Iceland are fighting for the remaining spot.

Igho Kingsley

Photo Credit : fifa.com