Former Nigeria international Julius Aghahowa has delivered a crucial message to the Super Eagles squad as they prepare for their critical 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff encounter against Gabon.
Aghahowa's Mental Approach Demand
The Shakhtar Donetsk legend emphasized that Nigerian players must adopt a strong mindset whenever they represent the national team. Speaking with AY Suga, Aghahowa expressed concern about the psychological preparation of the current squad.
"We have the players, and they are doing well week in, week out in their various clubs," Aghahowa stated. "They struggle in the national team because of the mentality; this is my own point of view."
The former Wigan Athletic forward believes there's a significant psychological component missing from the team's preparation. He stressed that both players and coaching staff need to address this critical aspect ahead of the crucial match.
Coach's Role in Player Mentality
Aghahowa highlighted the importance of having a coach with the right mental strength to handle the current generation of Super Eagles players. He insisted that the technical crew plays a vital role in shaping the team's orientation and approach.
"I think there is something wrong somewhere; psychologically, the players need to be handled with a strong mindset," Aghahowa explained. "We also need a coach that has a strong mindset to handle the players to give them that orientation."
The former international expressed his frustration with Nigeria's current situation, having to participate in the World Cup playoff rather than qualifying directly. He attributed this circumstance to decisions made by certain individuals within the football administration.
War Mentality Required
Aghahowa, who famously scored Nigeria's only goal against Sweden at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, emphasized that representing Nigeria should be approached with a warrior's mentality.
"The players are not just going to play a game when they are coming to Nigeria, especially when they wear the jersey; it is a war," he asserted. "There ought to be a spirit that will enter them to give their 120%, I don't see that."
Meanwhile, Super Eagles players have begun arriving at their training camp in Rabat, Morocco, with their first training session taking place on Monday evening, November 10. The team is preparing for their semifinal clash against the Panthers of Gabon scheduled for Thursday, November 13, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
If Nigeria emerges victorious against Gabon, they will face either DR Congo or Cameroon in the final playoff match for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In related news, coach Eric Chelle has apologized to Paul Onuachu for excluding him from the 24-man squad, expressing confidence in the selected forwards to deliver the required results.
