Legendary former captain John Obi Mikel has highlighted four key players who have impressed him as the Super Eagles gear up for a decisive Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final battle against Algeria.
Mikel's Standout Quartet for Nigeria
Speaking on his Obi One Podcast, the 2013 AFCON-winning captain specifically praised the performances of striker Victor Osimhen, winger Ademola Lookman, midfielder Alex Iwobi, and skipper Wilfred Ndidi at the tournament in Morocco.
"I like to see Victor Osimhen win the highest goalscorer award because he deserves it. Ademola Lookman as well, playing really well. Both of them are absolutely on fire," Mikel stated.
He expressed particular delight at Iwobi's form, noting, "Alex Iwobi in this tournament has been absolutely fantastic. I have been waiting for this from Alex Iwobi for a long time. Finally, we can see the Alex Iwobi that we all know." Regarding Ndidi, he emphasized the captain's role as "the mainstay of the team who keeps the balance."
Road to the Quarter-Finals
The Super Eagles have been in formidable form to reach the last eight. Their campaign began with a 2-1 victory over Tanzania, followed by group stage wins against Tunisia (3-2) and Uganda (3-1). They sealed their quarter-final berth with a dominant 4-0 thrashing of Mozambique in the Round of 16.
Their reward is a high-stakes clash with the Desert Foxes of Algeria, who defeated the Democratic Republic of Congo to set up the encounter. Nigeria's last continental triumph came in 2013, with Mikel himself lifting the trophy in South Africa.
Focus Key for Algeria Challenge
Mikel urged the current squad to approach the Algeria match with utmost diligence, warning that the North Africans are a quality side. He stressed the need for total concentration, especially in light of a reported training ground scuffle between Osimhen and Lookman that was quickly overshadowed by their on-pitch brilliance.
The former midfielder also touched on off-field matters, advising the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to ensure all financial obligations to the players are settled to avoid distractions. The NFF has since confirmed that player bonuses for the tournament have been processed and will be paid as due.
Mikel concluded with a rallying cry, asserting that while the team is functioning well, they must now "go on and win the tournament." The nation eagerly awaits to see if this quartet, praised by a legend, can lead the Super Eagles a step closer to ending the 12-year wait for AFCON glory.
