Former Super Eagles Star Points Finger at Players for World Cup Disaster
A former Nigeria international has placed the blame for the country's failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup squarely on the players' shoulders. The Super Eagles suffered a heartbreaking 4-3 defeat against DR Congo in the World Cup playoff final, marking Nigeria's second consecutive World Cup miss.
The three-time AFCON winners had entered the qualification playoffs with confidence after finishing second in their group last October. Nigeria started strong with an impressive 4-1 victory over Gabon, featuring a brace from Victor Osimhen, before collapsing against DR Congo in a penalty shootout defeat.
Training Boycott Controversy
Former Real Madrid star Oladimeji Lawal expressed deep disappointment with the team's preparation, particularly criticizing the players for embarking on a training boycott on the eve of the crucial World Cup playoff semifinal against Gabon. The former Shooting Stars FC general manager emphasized that this action demonstrated a lack of focus and commitment from the squad.
"No team in the world goes on strike during very crucial hours for a top tournament like the playoffs," Lawal stated. "That shows the players lack focus and hunger for the game. It is on record that some of the players have shown lackadaisical attitude whenever they resume national camp."
Lawal, who also played for Hellenic, highlighted that many players missed a golden opportunity to boost their profiles and attract attention from top European clubs by failing to secure World Cup participation.
Missed Opportunities and Accountability
The football legend noted with regret that some members of the current squad may never get another chance to play at the World Cup level. "Nothing should have hindered these crops of players from going to the World Cup," he said. "These guys are already blessed; they are financially comfortable thanks to the same football God used to elevate them. Going to the Mundial is beyond money, it is priceless."
Lawal didn't stop at criticizing the players alone. He called for greater accountability from the Nigeria Football Federation leadership, urging the Federal Government to intervene and demand explanations for the continuous decline in Nigerian football fortunes.
"The football leadership must answer tough questions," Lawal insisted. "People must be held responsible. The government must ensure that those destroying the joy and unity that football brings to this country are made accountable."
Following the World Cup qualification failure, the NFF has reportedly sent a personal apology to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The Super Eagles have now shifted their focus to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where they will be seeking their fourth continental title.
