Nigeria's Super Eagles trail Guinea-Bissau, which has seven points, in the AFCON qualifying Group standings by one point
The president of the Nigeria Football Federation, Ibrahim Gusau, has voiced his unhappiness with the Super Eagles' performance against Guinea-Bissau in the first leg.
In less than 364 days after losing their tickets to the Black stars of Ghana, José Peseiro's team suffered another defeat at the Moshood Abiola Stadium.
The African Wild Dogs won the match at the Abuja National Stadium by scoring on one of their three chances, while the Nigerian Super Eagles, who were the favourite, were unable to capitalize on their opportunities.
Speaking to the Nigerian men's squad after the game, Gusau voiced his dissatisfaction with the outcome and issued a warning that players who lack the courage to compete should turn down calls to represent their nation.
“Let us be very clear about one thing: no player will ever be encouraged against his wish to wear Nigeria’s colours at any time. If an invitation is extended to you at any time, but you are not physically, psychologically or mentally up to it, you are free to decline.” he said.
Speaking further about the outcomes, the President informed the players that the whole nation was dissatisfied with their performance and wanted improvement and better outcomes in their next contests.
Gusau added: “Nigeria demands good performances and positive results from any of the teams going forward. I was sorely disappointed by your performance against Guinea-Bissau, and I know that Nigerians at home and in the diaspora are more than disappointed. Things must change, starting with the return match in Guinea-Bissau on Monday. Our country is too big to be getting these poor results at the international level.”
On Monday evening, the Nigerian Super Eagles are scheduled to play at Estádio 24 de Setembro, where they must win in order to advance to Côte d'Ivoire.
