The Nigeria Soccer Federation (NFF) has distanced itself from a post-match assertion that criticised some Tremendous Eagles gamers following the crew’s 1-1 draw with South Africa in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
The assertion, issued by the NFF’s Director of Communications, Ademola Olajire, singled out ahead Cyriel Dessers and captain William Troost-Ekong for criticism.
It accused Dessers of being sluggish and faulted Ekong for the personal aim that gave Bafana Bafana the lead.
Nonetheless, NFF Basic Secretary, Mohammed Sanusi, stated on Wednesday that the assertion didn’t characterize the official place of the Federation.
“I noticed the discharge identical to everybody else did. No one within the Federation is pleased with it,” Mr Sanusi stated.
“The NFF didn’t authorise that assertion. We’ve got nice respect for all of the gamers. Blaming a person for a crew result’s unfair.”
He added that the Federation regards the South Africa match as a collective effort, and won’t assist makes an attempt to scapegoat any participant.
“After we win, it’s a crew victory. After we lose, it’s additionally collective. No participant ought to be singled out,” Mr Sanusi stated.
He described the focused criticism of Troost-Ekong as unjustified, noting that the defender had beforehand been celebrated because the Most Worthwhile Participant on the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire.
“It was an unlucky personal aim. His intention was to clear the ball. Anybody who is aware of soccer understands that such issues occur,” he stated.
Mr Sanusi additionally expressed confidence within the crew’s unity, revealing that efforts had been ongoing to regroup and refocus forward of the remaining qualifiers and AFCON.
“Our home is so as. We’re making ready for the remainder of the qualifiers and the AFCON in Morocco,” he stated.
“There’s no drawback with our gamers or teaching crew. Our relationship stays cordial. The federal government and the NFF are happy with the gamers’ efforts.”
The Federation had initially praised Calvin Bassey for his equalising aim and lamented the crew’s failure to transform second-half possibilities.
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However Mr Sanusi made it clear that inside disciplinary motion can be taken over the unauthorised launch.
“I can guarantee you the NFF will take motion on the matter,” he stated.
Nigeria at present sit third in Group C of the CAF World Cup qualifiers with 11 factors from eight matches. South Africa lead the group with 17 factors.
The Tremendous Eagles should now win their remaining video games towards Lesotho and Benin Republic, and hope different outcomes go their solution to safe qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
(NAN)
