Oliseh: “It is a tool for improvement” – Ex-Super Eagles coach hits back at critics after commentary backlash

Former head coach of the Super Eagles, Sunday Oliseh, has responded firmly to criticism over his television analysis of Nigeria's AFCON 2025 opener against Tanzania, Soccernet.ng reports.

Following several comments from displeased Nigerians, he insists his comments were aimed at helping the team improve and not tearing them down.

The former Nigeria captain came under heavy fire on X (formerly Twitter) after Nigeria’s 2–1 victory, with a section of the football fans accusing him of being overly harsh in his assessment despite the win.

The backlash prompted Oliseh to release an official statement to address the controversy.

Why Sunday Oliseh’s AFCON 2025 commentary sparked backlash online

Oliseh trended on X following Nigeria’s Group C win over Tanzania at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, after viewers took issue with his post-match analysis.

While the Super Eagles secured all three points in their tournament opener, sections of the Nigerian football community felt Oliseh focused too much on the team’s shortcomings rather than the result.

Some supporters interpreted his remarks as a lack of support for the players and coaching crew, especially given the pressure that often accompanies Nigeria’s AFCON campaigns.

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The criticism spread like wildfire on social media, with many Nigerian football faithful questioning Oliseh’s tone and intent as a pundit at this crucial stage of the competition.

What ex-Super Eagles coach said in his response

Former Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh has released an official statement responding to the backlash that followed his commentary on Nigeria’s 2–1 win over Tanzania at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

In response, the former Nigeria captain addressed the criticism directly, and noted that his comments were misunderstood.

In his statement, Oliseh wrote:

“I am deeply saddened by the recent suggestions on social media that my analysis of the Super Eagles’ performance against Tanzania stems from a lack of support for the team.”

“For nearly 40 years, I have dedicated my life and career to the progress of Nigerian football. While my professional duty requires impartiality and objective critique, my heart remains firmly with the players and Coach Eric Chelle. Constructive honesty is not a sign of dislike; it is a tool for improvement born out of a desire to see our nation succeed.”

Official Statement
​I am deeply saddened by the recent suggestions on social media that my analysis of the Super Eagles’ performance against Tanzania stems from a lack of support for the team.
​For nearly 40 years, I have dedicated my life and career to the progress of Nigerian…

— Sunday Oliseh (@SundayOOliseh) December 24, 2025

The former Borussia Dortmund star also described his comment as a contradiction in public reaction to his work as a pundit:

“Just recently, I was accused of being ‘too supportive’ of the coaching staff. To now be accused of the opposite suggests a misunderstanding of my role as an analyst. My loyalty to the Green and White is unwavering and requires no defense. Let us move past these distractions and unite in our support for the players.
God bless Nigeria.”

Eric Chelle's men will return to action against Tanzania in the coming days as attention shifts back to results on the pitch.