Super Eagles captain, Mikel Obi has vowed to make his last Africa Cup of Nations one to remember for Nigeria and believes his presence in the squad could be a crucial factor in their bid for success.

The midfielder, 32, concedes this will certainly be his last appearance on the continental showpiece event and possibly for his country. “It’s been an amazing ride for me in the national team,” Mikel told BBC Sport.
"Obviously winning the Nations Cup in South Africa was the high point, that’s why I want to help this young team to hopefully achieve their dreams. Thirteen years I think is enough. I’ve won trophies, I’ve had a lot of amazing time.

I think it’s time for these young guys to carry on. I’m mostly here in Egypt to support the young guys and make sure they’re on the right track. I think my presence is always important for them, hopefully I can finish with the trophy.”

Mikel has won a total of 89 caps for Nigeria, playing for them in the past two World Cups and helping the Super Eagles win the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations. He also helped Nigeria finish third at the 2006 and 2010 Nations Cups. He has made two appearances for his country at the ongoing tournament in Egypt, but missed their last-16 tie through injury as Nigeria secured a quarter-final date against South Africa with a 3-2 win over bitter rivals Cameroon.

Now Mikel is determined to play a part in Nigeria’s quest for a fourth continental title. “If I’m fit, I’d love to play in the quarterfinal, but no need to rush. Hopefully if we can make it to the semi-finals I’ll probably be ready then and help the team if I’m needed. A finalist with the youth side at the under-20 World Cup in 2005, the former Chelsea player believes he has had a successful run for the West African nation.

Obviously winning the Nations Cup in South Africa was the high point, that’s why I want to help this young team to hopefully achieve their dreams. If we are able to win it here, I’ll be proud and they’ll be proud, then they can carry on from here” he added.

He was also one of Nigeria’s three over-age players as the African side won a bronze medal at the 2016 Olympics in Rio.

Source: https://www.collinsuchendusblog.com/2019/07/super-eagles-captain-mikel-obi-admits.html?m=1

The previous one should have been your last.

before wetin him wan play again?

What are you still waiting for?

Simply a legend.

My respect for him soared during the Olympic games where he virtually shouldered the burden of the team both financially and on the pitch. Even during the AFCON we won, he was the leader.

He may not be playing well now but it takes nothing from him as one of Nigeria's football legends.

We should treat him with some respect he deserves

Win it for us Then to honour your memory

So far, just one match played. Best back-passer and defensive-minded attacking midfielder that Nigeria ever had.

You shouldn’t be in this one.

We no see ur work for this one wey u go self

l;

Just sit at the sideline and watch.

Thank you

Qatar 2022
He can always train hard and stay fit.
Ronaldo and Messi will be at Qatar

No retire abeg... And see if they will ever call up again..
His just staying the obvious

Mikel is a legend. He has paid his dues. He has done and achieved great things for the Super Eagles. He is bowing out as an achiever

Good decision, can't wait to see you as a super sports football analyst
Your football years are far behind you

You should have retired when you got sacked from Chinese league

Kudos

Before nko?

Mikel haters will soon flood the thread uninvited, especially the fans of perennial failure of a club called Ass-anal...And the club still daydreaming on its old glory...MournUnited

The most successful Nigerian player ever with the highest recognized trophies
And yes He scored as a player Incase of......u know them

yinkeys:
Qatar 2022
He can always train hard and stay fit.
Ronaldo and Messi will be at Qatar

Ronaldo and messy gave their true age

Thank you for all the good times.

Sane Nigerians love you and thank you for all you did for our nation

Neddstark:
So far, just one match played. Best back-passer and defensive-minded attacking midfielder that Nigeria ever had.

And you think you made sense abi?

He tried for Nigeria. He is a patriot for a country that doesn't value honour.

Retiring at 32 for "the young boys" to continue.

CR7 is 34 and playing like he's 10 years younger than Mikel.......or.......is he........?

Best news of the year the idiot did nothing 4 us.

The last match you played should be your last match in this tournament too

Neddstark:
So far, just one match played. Best back-passer and defensive-minded attacking midfielder that Nigeria ever had.

And still a well decorated player(By African standard) He deserves our praise and not this words from you.