By Daily Sports on October 11, 2016

Nigeria captain Mikel John Obi has stated that he now holds the belief that the Super Eagles can hit "new heights" with the new mentality and setup under Franco-German trainer Gernot Rohr.

The 29-year-old midfielder explained that his new belief stems from the commitment of the playing personnel in their build-up to the 2-1 win over Zambia's Chipolopolo in a 2018 Fifa World Cup qualifying game on Sunday.

He added that the coaching setup has "very matured and brilliant people".

Mikel's comments come just months after Nigeria's disappointment of failing to qualify for a successive Africa Cup of Nations, but they have now put themselves in pole position after the first round of matches in their group in the World Cup qualification after the other two powerhouses, Algeria and Cameroon, played out a 1-1 draw in Blida late on Sunday.

“I have belief that we can reach new heights with this team. The boys are so committed that it makes you happy. The coaching crew is made up of very matured and brilliant people who respect the players. We are onto a good thing," Mikel told thenff.com.

The Chelsea man now believes that Nigeria have a bright chance to reach the 2018 World Cup despite knowing that they have to navigate tough fixtures in the coming months against Algeria and Cameroon.

Mikel talks of the determined stance of the Super Eagles and dropped the hint that the Nigerians intend to keep top spot in Group B of the qualification in Africa to ensure that they qualify for the World Cup in Russia in two years.

“We have a very good chance to qualify for the World Cup if we keep our heads and play at our best level. Each and every one of us is determined to go to the World Cup. Now that we are top of the table, we have to remain there,” Mikel said.

Nigeria will next face Algeria at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo on November 12. (supersport.com)

•Photo shows John Obi Mikel

Source Daily Sports

Posted October 11, 2016

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