Nigeria’s successful qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) offers little solace amid a growing crisis within the Super Eagles.
The 2-1 defeat to Rwanda in Uyo — a historic first for the East Africans against Nigeria — laid bare the team’s frailties, with disarray evident across the pitch.
From a lack of tactical cohesion to defensive fragility and an absence of creative spark in attack, the signs are troubling.
This performance comes at a time when expectations around the team are higher than ever, given the talent pool at its disposal.
However, the loss suggests a group struggling to find its rhythm, with systemic problems undermining individual brilliance.
AFCON Qualification alone is not enough
While Nigeria secured their AFCON ticket from a group containing Benin, Libya, and Rwanda, their performances were far from convincing.
The Super Eagles managed just two wins, one draw, and a walkover victory against Libya. Even these results failed to inspire confidence. Conceding goals from set pieces and struggling to break down well-organized defenses remain persistent problems.
In matches against Benin and Rwanda, the Super Eagles looked vulnerable, conceding goals from poorly defended corners and counter-attacks.
This trend extends beyond these qualifiers, with similar issues arising in high-stakes games, including their painful elimination at the hands of Ghana during the 2022 World Cup qualification playoffs.
The Super Eagles coaching connodrum
At the heart of Nigeria’s struggles is the lack of quality coaching. Interim manager Austin Eguavoen, also the Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), has come under fire for the team’s lack of tactical structure.
Critics question the absence of a permanent head coach, arguing that the NFF’s failure to appoint a manager by January 2025 would signify a lack of ambition to compete on the world stage.
Key concerns include whether the team trains set pieces or reviews game footage. Nigeria’s defensive frailty at corners and free kicks suggests a lack of preparation in these critical areas.
Additionally, the midfield often appears disjointed, with Wilfred Ndidi left isolated and Alex Iwobi burdened with excessive creative responsibilities.
Squad selection and usage
The selection process has also been criticized for favoring familiar names over in-form players. Victor Boniface, for example, has struggled to replicate his club form for Bayer Leverkusen on the international stage.
Despite his undeniable talent, his performances for the Super Eagles have been underwhelming, raising questions about his role in the team.
Kelechi Iheanacho, Sadiq Umar, and Taiwo Awoniyi have also faced scrutiny for their lack of impact. Eguavoen’s reliance on “inner-circle” players has left many fans disillusioned, especially when emerging talents are overlooked.
A long road to recovery
The upcoming World Cup qualifiers present a daunting challenge for Nigeria. Sitting fifth in Group C after three draws and one loss, the Super Eagles are four points behind second-placed South Africa and group toppers, Rwanda.
With six games remaining, a swift turnaround is essential, but it will require bold decisions and a commitment to excellence.
The NFF must appoint a head coach who can instill discipline, tactical awareness, and a winning mentality. This person must also address the team’s inability to play through mid and low blocks, as well as their over-reliance on hopeful long balls.
The clock is ticking for Nigerian football. While the Super Eagles boast world-class talent like Osimhen, Lookman, and Chukwueze, their potential remains untapped due to systemic failures.
Fans should temper their expectations for AFCON and focus instead on the structural changes needed to restore Nigeria’s footballing pedigree.
Anything short of decisive action—starting with a new coach and a cohesive strategy—could spell disaster for Nigeria’s hopes of reclaiming their place among Africa’s elite.
