Mikel Agu: Rising Above Criticism with Determination and a Winning Goal

In the aftermath of Nigeria’s resounding victory over Zambia, securing their spot in the 2018 World Cup, Super Eagles midfielder Mikel Ndubuisi Agu finds himself at the center of a storm of criticism. Despite the triumph, Agu faced intense scrutiny, particularly for a yellow card earned just minutes after replacing Ogenyi Onazi. Reflecting on the game and the subsequent fallout, Agu opened up in an exclusive interview with completesportsnigeria.com.

Completesportsnigeria.com: Mikel, congratulations on scoring your first goal tonight (in the 3-1 win against Osmanlispor). You must be very pleased to open your goals account for the season?

Mikel Agu: Yeah, thanks bro, I’m happy to score but, more importantly, I’m happier that we won. When you work so hard, it is always nice to win games.

In a candid discussion, Agu, who recently notched his first goal for Turkish Super Lig side Bursaspor, shed light on the personal significance of the achievement. Well, it’s my first goal for Bursaspor, and I want to score more. I dedicate the goal to my wife and son. I’ve been waiting to score for my son since my wife was pregnant, and I’m glad I could finally get to do it for him and his mom. Hopefully, more will still come.

When questioned about Bursaspor’s success this season, Agu credited their achievements to a combination of hard work, divine intervention, and the expertise of coach Paul Le Guen. He dismissed the notion of a secret formula, emphasizing the role of faith and their coach’s profound understanding of the game.

As Bursaspor currently sits eighth on the league table, Agu expressed confidence in challenging traditional powerhouses like Galatasaray, Besiktas, and Fenerbahce for a place in Europe. Drawing attention to close encounters with these giants, Agu highlighted the narrow gap between his team and the established forces.

Switching gears to the national team’s World Cup qualification, Agu shared mixed emotions. Despite the joy of securing a World Cup ticket, he expressed the deep hurt caused by the torrent of post-Zambia game criticism. Agu addressed the unfairness of being singled out, stressing that every player gave their all for the victory.

Yes, the criticism hurts me, but it has made me work harder. I just need to believe first in myself and try to prove all of them wrong. Trust me, I will win them over, Agu asserted with determination, signaling his commitment to rising above the adversity.