The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has distanced itself from a controversial post-match statement that criticised Super Eagles stars following the team’s 1-1 draw with South Africa in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
The statement, signed by the NFF’s Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire, singled out forward Cyriel Dessers and captain William Troost-Ekong, accusing Dessers of being sluggish and blaming Ekong for the own goal that handed Bafana Bafana the lead.
However, the Federation’s General Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, on Wednesday clarified that the release did not represent the official position of the NFF.
“I saw the release just like everyone else did. Nobody in the Federation is happy with it. The NFF did not authorise that statement. We have great respect for all the players. Blaming an individual for a team result is unfair,” Sanusi said.
He stressed that the South Africa match was a collective effort and insisted that no player should be scapegoated.
“When we win, it’s a team victory. When we lose, it’s also collective. No player should be singled out,” he added.
Sanusi also defended Troost-Ekong, describing the criticism of the AFCON 2023 Most Valuable Player as unjustified.
“It was an unfortunate own goal. His intention was to clear the ball. Anyone who knows football understands that such things happen,” he said.
The NFF General Secretary further reassured fans that the Super Eagles camp remains united and focused on the qualifiers.
“Our house is in order. We’re preparing for the rest of the qualifiers and the AFCON in Morocco. There’s no problem with our players or coaching crew. The government and the NFF are proud of the players’ efforts,” he said.
While the initial release had praised Calvin Bassey for scoring the equaliser, Sanusi confirmed that disciplinary measures would be taken internally over the unauthorised statement.
“I can assure you the NFF will take action on the matter,” he stated.
Nigeria currently sit third in Group C of the CAF World Cup qualifiers with 11 points from eight matches, while South Africa top the group with 17 points. The Super Eagles must now win their remaining games against Lesotho and Benin Republic, and hope other results go in their favour, to secure a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
