Atalanta 1996 Olympic gold medalist Abiodun Obafemi has voiced his frustration with the lack of commitment displayed by some Super Eagles players following their 2-1 defeat to Rwanda in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, Soccernet.ng reports.
The match, played on Monday in Uyo, saw Nigeria, ranked among Africa's top five teams, succumb to a shocking loss against the 126th-ranked Rwandan side.
The defeat was all the more surprising given Nigeria’s qualification for the 2025 AFCON, which led to the absence of some key players.
Coach Augustine Eguavoen made the decision to allow Ola Aina and Ademola Lookman to leave the Super Eagles' camp early and return to their clubs, while star striker Victor Osimhen began the game on the bench.
This strategy, intended to provide fringe players with an opportunity, ultimately backfired as Nigeria suffered their first-ever defeat to Rwanda.
In an interview with Brila FM, Obafemi expressed disappointment over the performance of some players, questioning their commitment to the national team.
Obafemi said: “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.
“They must be competitive. I don’t understand why they are selecting games.”
Looking ahead, Nigeria's next challenge will be against Rwanda in March, as part of the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.
After starting their campaign with four games without a win, the Super Eagles now face the pressure of winning all their remaining six matches to qualify.
Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar has further heightened the urgency surrounding their performance.
Some players in the Super Eagkes don’t understand the importance of being invited to the national team. It is a thing of pride and accomplishment to be invited to play for your country out of millions. It carries heavy responsibility and commitment and is something to be cherished and be proud of. However, it seems from the performance of some Suoer Eagles ‘ players that they don’t appreciate the opportunity given to them, and seem to see their invitation as a favour to Nigerians and Nigeria. Any player who seems to be uncommitted to the national cause should not be invited . Attention should be given to players who are patriotic and happy to wear the national team jersey. Players who know the importance of representing 220 million Nigerians and ready to give all to make their fellow citizens happy.