NFF President Ibrahim Gusau voiced his discontent with the Super Eagles following their 1-1 draw against the underdog Equatorial Guinea in the inaugural AFCON Group A match in Abidjan.
Despite staging a comeback from a goal down, the Super Eagles’ lackluster performance, characterized by their failure to convert numerous clear-cut chances, fell short of expectations. Gusau, accompanied by the Presidential delegation leader George Akume, Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and other high-ranking officials, visited the team’s dressing room to convey his disappointment. He criticized the team for not delivering their best on the field, especially considering the significant support from the Federal Government.
Expressing frustration, Gusau questioned the players’ commitment to the national team, remarking, “After all the support the Government has provided, you couldn’t perform well. Is this the level of play exhibited at your various clubs in Europe?” The NFF president even hinted at the possibility of introducing new players to the squad, possibly to make a statement in front of the accompanying VIPs.
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On the contrary, Coach Jose Peseiro defended his team, expressing pride in their performance during the match. However, insiders revealed that the players were dissatisfied with the “harsh” words from the NFF president, claiming they had yet to receive payments and benefits promised by the government.
It was disclosed that President Bola Tinubu approved 12 Billion Naira to settle outstanding bonuses and allowances owed to the Super Eagles and other sports teams that recently represented the country.