Mikel proud of teammates

Nigeria captain John Obi Mikel has saluted his teammates’ for putting up a brave display against Argentina despite losing 2-1 at the Saint Petersburg Arena on Tuesday.

The Super Eagles were minutes away from securing a point which would have seen them take second place in Group D to set up a round of 16 clash against France on June 30.

“It is what it is,” the Tianjin TEDA midfielder told reporters at full time. “We did everything we
could.

“In the second half we pushed and pushed. It just wasn’t to be. It’s a young team and in four years
most of them will be ready for this tournament.

“I’m very proud of the boys and what we have achieved. I think we have done really well. We have to
keep going. Thanks to all the Nigerians who have supported us.”

However, Marcos Rojo’s volley in the 86th minute put the two-time World Cup winners ahead again after
Victor Moses’s penalty had cancelled out Lionel Messi’s opener.

The result means that Nigeria finish third in Group D with three points.