Idowu: The last time we played against Argentina we scored four goals
Super Eagles defender, Bryan Idowu, has warned his teammates not to
get complacent in the winner-takes-all decider against Lionel Messi
and Argentina on Tuesday.
Idowu, who has Russian links, advised the Eagles on how to maintain
their determined efforts and focus.
“We are 100 per cent focused. If you give Lionel Messi space he will
punish you,” Idowu said.
“That’s what the Croatians showed against him. We have to give our
best and play as a team. They will be difficult to play. We will be
facing Messi, Dybala and Di Maria.
“We have to be cautious and determined against Argentina. We need to
recover and prepare for the game against them. We need to rest, work
on our lapses and get ready for Argentina.
“But we will take solace from our performance in the friendly match we
played against them when we scored four goals. We need to implement
what we have learnt. Hopefully, we should win.
“They have picked one point from two matches. They will come out
against us. We must stay humble and continue to work hard.”
Idowu took time to reflect on the 2-0 win against Iceland.
“We didn’t concede and we dealt with their set pieces. We had the ball
more in the second half and played a very good game,” he said.
“I was hoping that Francis was going to save the penalty kick. In
Russia, I have seen a situation when my goalkeeper at Amkar Perm saved
two penalties. In the end, the kick went over the bar. Even if the
ball had gone in I was very sure of our abilities to hold on.
“I hope it doesn’t repeat itself. If you concede two goals in a World
Cup, the hope of coming back is usually difficult.”
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