Former Nigerian international, Osaze Odemwingie, has taken aim at the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) after the body publicly blamed William Troost-Ekong and Cyriel Dessers for the Super Eagles’ recent stumbles in the race to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Super Eagles entered September knowing the stakes were high. Two victories were needed to keep qualification hopes firmly alive. In Uyo, they edged Rwanda 1-0 in front of a home crowd desperate for a revival. But the momentum did not last. A trip to Bloemfontein ended with a 1-1 draw against South Africa — a result that left supporters frustrated and Nigeria’s campaign still on shaky ground.
Rather than focus on collective improvement, the NFF, in its post-match reflections, pointed fingers directly at team captain Troost-Ekong and forward Dessers, sparking outrage among ex-players and fans alike.
Odemwingie, who represented Nigeria at two World Cups and earned over 60 caps, wasted no time in voicing his displeasure. Speaking to Brila FM, he described the federation’s approach as both careless and unprofessional.
“When you see an institution that singles out players for criticism, it shows you the wrong people are in charge,” Odemwingie said.
“Many of them don’t have the proper training or qualifications to handle these roles. It’s not how a serious football federation should operate.”
He went further, comparing those in charge to ordinary fans.
> “They are just like supporters in the stands. Give the job to an everyday fan and he will probably do it as well as the person currently doing it. That’s how low the standard has become.”
The former West Bromwich Albion forward stressed that scapegoating players undermines team spirit and confidence at a time when unity is most needed. He warned that such practices damage the image of Nigerian football and erode trust between players and administrators.
The Super Eagles still face a daunting task in the qualifiers. With a tight group and little room for error, attention must now turn to the upcoming fixtures where every point will matter. For Odemwingie, the focus should not be on blaming individuals but on building professionalism and accountability within the federation itself.
As Nigeria celebrates past glories and dreams of another World Cup stage, voices like Odemwingie’s echo a familiar concern — that mismanagement off the pitch continues to hold back one of Africa’s most talented football nations.
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