From Mumini Alao in Brasilia:
Super Eagles captain Joseph Yobo has called it quits with international football following the team’s defeat to France in the Round of 16 of the 2014 FIFA World Cup on Monday.
Yobo achieved his much sought-after 100 caps for the Nigerian national team in the game against the 1998 World Cup winners, then announced during the press conference after the game, of his decision to quit from international football.
“This is my last game for the Super Eagles. It’s unfortunate that I’m not going out with a victory but there can’t be a better time for me to end it than now.
“We have a good tournament at this World Cup. Today, we also had a very good game against France. I will say they were lucky to win. We didn’t deserve to lose. Their second goal was unfortunate for me. I was trying to intercept the ball but it went in.
“I can’t complain about the commitment of my players. As captain, they gave me all the support on and off the field. We were one family.”
Yobo insists the team were not distracted by issues bothering on bonuses.
“We were not distracted before the game (by the widely reported money issues). We needed to sort things out with the officials, that was done and everybody concentrated (on the game). There was no distraction.
“On a personal note, I have nothing to be sad about. I have played in three World Cups now and this is the first time that I will reach the second round. To do it as captain is an honor.
“My international career is over now but I will continue at the club level. I cannot dictate what the (Nigeria Football) Federation should do for me (to celebrate 100 caps for Nigeria). I think I will leave it to them as well as you people (journalists) who were doing the counting to decide whatever should be done. But I’m very proud to have reached the 100 mark for my country,” the Norwich City defender said.
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