Super Eagles Captain John Obi Mikel has attributed the gains made so far en-route Russia 2018 to team work even as he challenged his teammates to maintain the tempo as they face Chipolopolo of Zambia come October 7 in Uyo.
Mikel who doubles as Captain of Chinese Super league side Tiajin Teda, described the Zambian team as a formidable side, adding however that the Eagles have a job to do which is to finish on high and book a place in Russia.
“We have all shown professionalism and commitment so far, but the job is not finished and so we must remain focused to the end,” he said ahead of the Uyo showdown.
The former Chelsea midfielder is due in the country at the weekend alongside Changchun Yatai forward Odion Ighalo.
Botswana Referee Joshua Bondo will be at the centre when Eagles host the Zambians in Uyo. The 39 year old whistle man who has over a decade experience in the kitty will be assisted by compatriot Oamogetse Godisamang.
A number of fans, who spoke to the Nation Sport Wednesday on their expectation at the Nest of Champions, expressed optimism that the Eagles will emerge victorious but charged the team to aim for early goals to avoid playing under pressure in the second half.
Last year when Eagles took on Zambia in Ndola, it was the business minded Eagles that ran away with 2-1 victory with Alex Iwobi and kelechi Ihenacho accounting for the goals. The Zambians in that encounter had to struggle till the 71st minute before Collins Mbesuma got a consolation goal with Carl Ikeme in goal for the Eagles.