Super Eagles Captain John Mikel Obi has predicted that the Eagles world Cup opener against the Croatia National team on Saturday night in Kaliningrad will be tactical.

“We have to make sure we control this game.”

He also praised the quality of the Croatians.

“They are a very good team, a fantastic team with fantastic players,” he remarked.

He said it was crucial to start the World Cup campaign with a result.

“Every game counts. It’s therefore important that we start in a positive way, build on that so as to qualify from this group,” he said.

Kick-off time is 8 pm, which is 6 pm in Nigeria, on Saturday.