AFCON 2025
Former Nigeria international Victor Ikpeba has blamed the Super Eagles players for the country’s precarious position in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, while dismissing calls for the resignation of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) executive committee.
Speaking on SuperSport’s Monday Night Football programme, Ikpeba insisted that critics calling for the resignation of the NFF executive committee “do not understand the efforts” the body has been making to ensure the Super Eagles qualify.
“Our players should take the lion’s share of the blame for our shoddy performance so far in the World Cup qualifiers,” Ikpeba said.
He added, “They were given everything they needed to deliver qualification without stress, but somehow they have not lived up to expectations.
“I won’t question their commitment, but with the quality of players we have, Nigeria should not be struggling in our group.”
Ikpeba dismissed the criticism aimed at the football federation. “Why are some people calling for the resignation of the NFF? Do they expect committee members to come and play the game on the pitch?” he stated.
The Super Eagles are now in a precarious position where, even if they win their last two qualifying matches, it is unlikely to be enough to secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
