Super Eagles goalkeeper, Ikechukwu Ezenwa is beginning to talk tough as we get closer to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
Top on his mind is how to stop Argentine football genius, Lionel Messi whose country has been grouped with Nigeria again.
He told BBC that he understands the whole of Nigeria would be looking to him for salvation from the potential punishment that awaits for Messi opponents.
He said, “I know I’m carrying 180 million people on my shoulder and I have to stop him.
“And for me to stop him makes me a special one in that game because I think once I stop it, the whole 180 million Nigerians will jubilate for the victory.”
Ezenwa became a regular feature after first-choice goalkeeper, Carl Ikeme was diagnosed with Leukaemia.
But the 29-year-old’s chances of remaining first choice is being threatened with the emergence of youngster Francis Uzoho.
Nevertheless, Ezenwa is expected to be part of the final 23-man list by Coach Gernot Rohr whether he will be trusted with the task to “stop Messi” or not.
Nigeria will face Croatia, Iceland, and Argentina in the group stage.
