By Sport Analyst
Emmanuel Afonja
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has refuted claims that it officially released a statement criticizing Super Eagles stars following the team’s 1-1 draw with South Africa in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
The controversial statement, which circulated on Tuesday, singled out striker Cyriel Dessers for “sluggish play” and faulted captain William Troost-Ekong for scoring the own goal that initially put Bafana Bafana ahead. The release bore the name of the NFF’s Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire.
However, the Federation’s General Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, clarified on Wednesday that the comments did not represent the official stance of the NFF.
“I came across that release the same way everyone else did. The NFF did not authorise it, and it does not reflect our position,” Sanusi said. “We have full respect for all our players, and blaming individuals for a team result is not fair. Victories and setbacks are collective.”
Sanusi described the criticism of Troost-Ekong as unwarranted, recalling that the defender was celebrated as the Most Valuable Player at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire. He stressed that the own goal was an accident that could happen to any professional.
The NFF secretary also expressed confidence in the team’s spirit, insisting there was no rift between the Federation and the players. “Our house is in order. We are focused on the remaining qualifiers and the AFCON in Morocco. The bond between the NFF, the government, and the players remains strong,” he added.
Sanusi further disclosed that the Federation would investigate how the unauthorised statement was circulated and promised internal disciplinary measures against those responsible.
Currently, Nigeria sit third in Group C of the CAF World Cup qualifiers with 11 points from eight matches, trailing group leaders South Africa, who have 17 points. The Super Eagles must now win their final matches against Lesotho and Benin Republic and hope other results favor them in order to keep their qualification hopes alive.
