Mikel Obi Out of Nelson Mandela Challenge

 

Mikel Obi, FC Chelsea’s and the Super Eagles’ midfielder will not be able to support the team for the upcoming international friendly, the Nelson Mandela Challenge, scheduled for Wednesday, August 14, at the Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban, South Africa.

Ben Alaiya, the team’s Media Officer, announced on Tuesday that Mikel’s club, Chelsea FC, informed the National team handlers.

According to them, the player (Obi) was having stomach upset and would not be able to honour the match.

The Media Officer also reported from Durban that “the mood in the camp is high as all 19 players, including Victor Moses are already there and happy to have been called up for the match, despite the loss of Mikel Obi”.

“There are no injury worries. They are ready to play to make the country proud. I want all Nigerians to expect the best from the team on Wednesday”, Ben Alaiya continuerd.

It would be reminded that tomorrow’s international friendly, is the annual Nelson Mandela Challenge to celebrate the birthday of the global icon and to also raise funds for his charity project.

The match shall commence at 8.15 p.m. (7.15 p.m. Nigeria time).

The Bafana Bafana coach, Gordon Igesund told newsmen that he was happy at the high spirit among his players.

“I am happy at the response of players in camp toward preparation for our match against Nigeria. Apart from the fact that the match is friendly, it is to honour Mandela.

(NAN)