Abiodun Olugbemiga Obafemi, a member of Nigeria’s gold medal winning team at the Atlanta 1996 Olympics, has criticized the lack of commitment shown by some Super Eagles players. Speaking in the aftermath of Nigeria’s 2-1 loss to Rwanda in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Uyo, Obafemi expressed frustration at players who appear to “select games” and underperform when representing the national team.
We expected so much from these guys based on their performances with their clubs, but when they come to Nigeria, they do what they cannot in their teams. It’s a very big concern, Obafemi stated in an interview . He called on the players to show the same level of competitiveness and dedication they exhibit at club level while wearing the Super Eagles jersey.
The comments have sparked discussions about the commitment and attitude of Nigerian players toward international duty, especially after a lacklustre team performance in a match where the Super Eagles had already secured AFCON qualification.
Editorial
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Abiodun Obafemi’s comments shine a spotlight on a long-standing issue in Nigerian football: the disparity between players’ club-level performances and their contributions to the national team. This inconsistency not only frustrates fans but also raises questions about players’ dedication and the team’s culture.
Representing the national team should be a matter of pride and responsibility. The Super Eagles carry the hopes of millions, and underperforming diminishes the trust and enthusiasm of supporters. The NFF and coaching staff must address this issue by fostering a culture of accountability, ensuring that players give their all on the pitch.
Obafemi’s remarks should serve as a wake-up call for both players and administrators. Nigeria has a rich footballing heritage, and it is crucial to uphold the standards and expectations that come with wearing the Super Eagles jersey.
Did You Know?
- Abiodun Obafemi was part of Nigeria’s 1996 Olympic team that won gold in football, a first for any African nation.
- The Super Eagles secured qualification for AFCON 2025 before their loss to Rwanda, making the match a “dead rubber” fixture.
- Nigeria has won the Africa Cup of Nations three times, most recently in 2013.
- Obafemi’s criticism echoes concerns voiced by fans over the years about players prioritising club commitments over international duty.
- The 2025 AFCON will take place in Morocco, featuring 24 teams from across the continent.
