Alex Iwobi has warned Nigeria U-23 against complacency when they begin their 2016 Olympics campaign in Brazil.
The Dream Team VI are pooled in Group B alongside Japan, Sweden and Colombia and the Arsenal forward believes Samson Siasia’s men will triumph with hard work and commitment.
“First, I would like to join the nation in commending coach Siasia for securing a ticket to the Rio Olympics Football Tournament.
“It took a lot of hard work, dedication and sacrifice on his part and we should not let his effort and the efforts of the officials and players be in vain.
“If I am invited to be part of the Olympic, I assure fellow Nigerians that I will give my best. I am a Nigerian by birth and have made it clear that I will always offer my services to the nation if and when called upon to do so.
“I remain grateful to England for the opportunities given me to play at youth level. However, my decision has been made to give my services to Nigeria and there is no going back.”
“I have noticed with interest the group draws. The favourites for the Olympic gold medal are, of course, Brazil or Argentina. However, Nigeria has shown in the past that they are a nation to be reckoned with in Olympic football.
“We have been drawn into a group which includes Sweden, Colombia and Japan. These are countries with different styles of football.
“A lot of fans would expect us to qualify easily from the group but I must warn that we should guard against complacency. It has been proved time and time again that there are no easy games, especially in international football.
“We would need to concentrate and take the competition one game at a time. I have absolute faith and confidence in the coaching staff and NFF officials.
“With hard work, dedication and the special grace of God, we shall surely make the nation proud. I call upon all the fans to get behind the team and cheer the team to victory,” he concluded.
Nigeria will begin their campaign against Japan at the Amazonia Arena, Manaus.
