The President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Aminu Maigari, has expressed optimism that the Super Eagles will go ahead and qualify for the knock-out stages of the 2014 FIFA World Cup despite Monday’s scoreless draw with Iran in Curitiba.
The African champions huffed and puffed throughout but failed to get the needed goal to claim the three points, despite dominating for large periods.
Maigari said: “I remain optimistic and confident that the Eagles will still qualify. Certainly, the Government and people of Nigeria were expecting victory in this game, but that is football for you.
“I have spoken with the Head Coach and he knows as well that victory against Bosnia-Herzegovina is non-negotiable. The team will do what is necessary to earn the three points and then face with Argentina with courage.”
Maigari spoke on board the TAM Air flight that brought the NFF delegation back to Sao Paulo after the match.
Argentina now tops Group F with three points while Nigeria lies second with Iran on one point each, and the Bosnians bottom without a point.
Maigari added: “I want our people to remain strong behind the team and continue to support the players and technical crew with their prayers. The tournament is just starting, and the team has also seen this match as a wake-up call.”
Victory against pointless Bosnia-Herzegovina in Curtiaba on Saturday will take the Super Eagles to four points and a probable place in the Round of 16, as Argentina are most likely to defeat Iran the same day in Belo Horizonte.
Follow The Eagle Online Channel on WhatsApp
