Nigeria captain Joseph Yobo has announced his retirement from international football following the team's elimination from the World Cup Monday.
The 33-year-old scored an injury-time own goal in his team's 0-2 defeat by France in their Round-of-16 clash at the Mane Garrincha National stadium, reports Xinhua.
"It was a bitter-sweet moment for me, but I think it is time to focus on my family," the Fenerbahce defender said after the match.
Yobo, who made his international debut in 2001, won his 100th cap for the Super Eagles Monday.
He represented Nigeria at three World Cups and captained the team to victory at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.
Nigeria advanced to the knockout phase in Brazil after finishing second in Group-F behind Argentina.
Despite ending his international career on a sour note, Yobo refused to dwell on what might have been.
"We came here and were not disgraced," the former Everton centre-back said.
"I never thought that I'd be here, because I missed the last six games of the season through injury. They gave me an opportunity, but it is unfortunate what happened. I gave my all," he added.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
