Social media commentator Japheth Joshua Omojuwa has publicly criticised the Super Eagles' crossing quality following Nigeria's 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday, September 29, in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier held in Bissau. The loss marks coach Eric Chelle's first defeat since taking charge of the Nigerian national team.
Omojuwa Questions Nigerian Players' Professionalism
Writing on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, Omojuwa expressed disbelief at the standard of play displayed by the Super Eagles. He questioned whether the players on the pitch were truly professional footballers, specifically highlighting the poor quality of crosses delivered during the match.
"Are all these guys professional footballers? I can't believe some of these crosses mahn!" Omojuwa wrote on X, reacting to the team's lacklustre performance in Bissau.
How Guinea-Bissau Dismantled the Super Eagles
Guinea-Bissau took the lead in the 15th minute through Franculino Dju, who curled a precise effort into the far corner past Nigeria goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali. The hosts maintained their advantage comfortably into half-time, as Nigeria struggled to create any meaningful attacking threat.
Coach Eric Chelle responded at the break by introducing Moses Usor and Moses Simon in place of Frank Onyeka and Taiwo Awoniyi. However, the substitutions failed to change the momentum of the game, and Mama Baldé extended Guinea-Bissau's lead to 2-0 in the 66th minute.
Late Chances and Stoppage-Time Drama
Nigeria came close to pulling one back in the 87th minute when George Ilenikhena found himself in a promising position, but Guinea-Bissau goalkeeper Djoco Embadje produced a sharp close-range save to keep the advantage intact. Álvaro Djaló then sealed the result with a third goal deep into stoppage time.
What the Result Means for Nigeria's Campaign
The defeat is officially Chelle's first loss since taking charge of the Super Eagles. Guinea-Bissau now sit top of Group L with six points from two games, having also beaten Tanzania 2-0 in their opening fixture. Nigeria remain on three points, earned from a 2-1 comeback win over Madagascar in their first qualifier.
The Super Eagles will need to regroup quickly if they are to stay on course for qualification to the 2027 tournament, with the loss in Bissau serving as a significant setback in their qualifying campaign.
