By Dr. Salau D.F
The recent performances of Nigeria in the last two matches of the 2025 African Qualifiers have shown the level of commitment of the foreign based players each time they are invited to play for Nigeria.
The drawn match against the Republic of Benin shows a low level of commitment with a less than 50 percent commitment on the sides the Super Eagles players. This is a match they should have won assuming they up their game and show more commitment.
The last game of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers against Rwanda was another pathetic story on Commitment. It shows a lesser percentage of commitment on the part of the players. It took Osimhen who came in after 78th Minute when the Super Eagles were 2-1 down to start running around to request for more commitment from the players.
Loosing to Rwanda, a team that is in line to compete with us in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifier in March 2025 was bad. The commitment level of the players was scandalously low. Even the players put up a poor performance with the fact that they had already qualified for the 2025 AFCON.
Nigeria players need to show more commitment each time they represent the country. The lackadaisical attitude of the players on the field of play was baffling. At a time the Uyo fans started booing them to ginger them up. It was terrible.
However, the best way to inculcate Commitment in players is by letting them compete vigorously for their positions. The Coaching crew should invite home based players to contest with the professionals abroad. It’s the competition that will bring out the best of commitment from the players.
The Super Eagles can only qualify for the 2026 World Cup if they are committed to the Team. The need to win all there remaining qualifiers. This can only be possible with a high degree of commitment from the players, Coaches and other stakeholders.
Foreign based professionals who are not fit and shows low level of commitment should have its place taken over by more commited home based players. Their carriage during the last match against Rwanda shows very low commitment
The Team Officials should not pick only foreign based players. As home based Coaches, They should be able to invite promising home based players to the team. This will espouse determination to be committed to the team and perform maximally for the National Team.
Inability to take corrective measures as suggested and prepare the team to play with more dedication and commitment may mar the Super Eagles chances at 2026 World Cup. A stitch in time, saves 9
- Dr Salau D.F (Dee Elf), a former NUGA Publicity Liaison Officer (1993-2001) writes from Lagos at daudasalau2015@gmail.com