NFF official tears Dessers after Nigeria’s draw with Bafana – He was too slow

Nigeria's Super Eagles failed to collect a vital win over Bafana Bafana in their bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

With the teams separted by six points, it was vital for Eric Chelle's men to ensure they get three points to get back on course. However, they found themeselves on the back-foot after Willian Troost-Ekong's own goal early in the game which was canceled by Calvin Bassey's strike.

Two rounds are remaining to conclude the qualifiers, which puts Nigeria in a tricky position considering the fact that Benin, who are on 14 points, are also chasing the World Cup slot.

A blunder? Have a look at administrator's reaction

In the absence of the injured Victor Osimhen, Chelle selected Cyriel Dessers to lead the attack. However, the striker did not deliver as expected, drawing sharp criticism from NFF's Director of Communications, Dr Ademola Olajire.

“Cyriel Dessers, who had an unimpressive game in Uyo where he was substituted after coming on, did not fare any better. He was too slow to latch onto passes, failed to win aerial duels and offered little to spark the Nigerian attack,” he said in a sattement published by the NFF website before being taken down.

“The Super Eagles’ fighting spirit was diminished after team captain William Ekong inadvertently swept the ball into his own net in the 25th minute, wrong-footing Stanley Nwabali and handing the Bafana Bafana the lead and momentum.”