We are reducing level of anxiety in the team – Super Eagles Psychologist
By: Abiodun Elegbede in Brazil
NigerianEcho man in Brazil, Abiodun Elegbede ahead of Nigeria match tomorrow visited the camp of Nigeria Super Eagles at the Victoria Hotel, Campinas, Spain and had interview with the Super Eagles psycologist, Dr Robinson Okosun to feel the pulse of the team.
Excerpts:
NE: Nigerians back home were disappointed with the result against Iran. What is your take?
Okosun: yes I agree with you, there was huge expectations from Nigerians especially after the Nations Cup. They expect the team to do very well in the World Cup. However we apologise to Nigerians for the result, this World Cup is full of surprises, despite that we give kudos to the players with the pattern of Iran game.
NE: Psychologically are the players ready for the Bosnia match?
Okosun: Well morale was down in the team as you would expect with the Iran result, but we have been able to work on the players morale and I can confirm to you that they are in high spirit looking forward to Bosnia match. They are rearing to battle Bosnia and qualify for next round of the tournament.
NE: What do you identify to be their initial problem?
Okosun: it was anxiety. They are very anxious to impress and win, hence lot of mistakes cropped in. We are reducing their level of anxiety. Play your game, don’t force it, goals will come.
NE: What is the state of mind of the Technical Crew?
Okosun: Well they are under pressure to deliver because of expectations of Nigerians. Keshi was down on the night of Iran match, but we talk to him and he has to pick himself up and look forward to the next match. You know it’s easy for a coach to pick his eleven, you have to consider so many things, both technically and tactically.
NE: So what do we expect from the Super Eagles against Bosnia?
Okosun: Expect a determined, focus and relaxed team that will do Nigerians proud on the day.
NE: Thank you Dr Okosun.
Okosun: my pleasure.