Despite the absence of Lionel Messi in the Argentine squad billed to engage the Super Eagles on June 1, Super Eagles’ captain, Joseph Yobo, has declared his wish to file out against the reigning World Footballer of the Year.
“I know some may not believe what I’m about to say but the fact is that I enjoy playing against Messi. I know he is a defender’s nightmare but any defender that wants to be at the top of his game must not shy away from marking Messi. I have had a good season and I feel very fit but I would have loved to test my form against Messi”, he said.
Yobo, however, believes Messi’s absence will not take the shine out the game.
“The fact is that the Argentine team will always be a formidable one with or without Messi. Don’t forget that the squad is also preparing for the Copa America.
We will put in our best to ensure we do Nigeria proud on the day”, he added.
He does not see the Argentina friendly affecting the Eagles’ performance in the Nations Cup qualifier away to Ethiopia four days later.
His words: “We are professionals and in our various clubs we are used to playing matches within four days. I know the Ethiopia match is as important if not more important than the Argentina match but we will approach both matches with the deserved seriousness to get desired results. I have full cºonfidence in the technical crew and its ability to manage the large pool of players for both matches.”
