Super Eagles coach, Gernot Rohr, has revealed just why successive friendly defeats could be good for his team.
The Eagles suffered a humiliating defeat to the Czech Republic on Wednesday, four days after losing to England.
With Nigerians jittery about their chances in Russia, Rohr has explained that the defeats could be a blessing in disguise.
The Franco-German stated that it will bring the best out of his players and avoid complacency.
“We lost again another match, everybody is angry about it and this anger is positive,” Rohr told BBC Sport on Thursday.
“After we won against Argentina in a friendly [in November], everyone talked about us reaching the semi-final and now the results now has humbled those voices.
“Because we need humility, it is helping us. We also need solidarity and hard work. Everybody understands this after the defeat to the Czech Republic.”
The three-time African champions looked lethargic during the opening half of their loss to the Czechs but played with more intent after half-time in their final warm-up match.
Rohr also pointed to the fact that Leicester midfielder Wilfred Ndidi, who had been out since April with a hamstring injury, is once again fit.
“We also had some positive lessons especially with the return of Ndidi. He has not played for two months,” Rohr said.
“It was very important to see him playing again. Normally, he should play 70 minutes but could play 90 minutes which is very good.
“The medical team did a great job. Now Ndidi will be fit for the World Cup.”
