Mikel Criticises Croatia Decision to Rest Star Players

Nigeria captain John Obi Mikel has called on Croatia to be professional and not rest players against Iceland in a match that could yet decide the Super Eagles’ World Cup fate.

“I don’t think it’s the best thing to do,” he said. “This is a massive tournament – you can’t rest people and give others a chance of qualification. They should be professional and play their best team. This is such a big stage that you can’t rest players just to help other teams to qualify.”

Nigeria have faced Argentina four times in their previous five World Cup appearances, losing on all four occasions, but the form of the South American outfit has raised hopes that the Super Eagles can end that run.