Former Tremendous Eagles captain Sunday Oliseh has warned that Nigeria not enjoys the worry issue it as soon as commanded in African soccer, following the crew’s disappointing World Cup qualification marketing campaign.
Talking forward of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, Oliseh mentioned Nigeria’s struggles in current qualifiers have emboldened opponents, who now see matches towards the Tremendous Eagles as alternatives reasonably than daunting challenges.
“Groups are not afraid of Nigeria. That worry is gone,” Oliseh mentioned.
The previous midfielder defined that Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the World Cup has modified perceptions throughout the continent.
“Opponents are motivated now. They imagine Nigeria might be crushed, and that makes video games even more durable,” he added.
Oliseh identified that AFCON group-stage matches can be notably harmful, as groups will strategy video games towards Nigeria with confidence and aggression.
“Each crew will elevate their stage towards Nigeria. That’s the truth now,” he mentioned.
Regardless of the warning, Oliseh nonetheless believes the Tremendous Eagles have sufficient high quality to prime their group, supplied they strategy the match with seriousness and depth.
“Nigeria nonetheless has the gamers to complete prime of the group, however the first sport is essential,” he famous.
He emphasised that successful the opening match may assist restore confidence and re-establish authority throughout the competitors.
“A powerful begin can change the narrative and convey perception again,” Oliseh defined.
The previous captain additionally careworn the significance of self-discipline and focus, warning that status alone will not carry the crew.
“The gamers should earn respect once more via efficiency, not historical past,” he mentioned.
Oliseh urged the teaching crew to make sure tactical readability and psychological preparedness, particularly towards supposedly weaker opponents.
“Underestimating anybody now can be harmful,” he warned.
He concluded by calling on the gamers to embrace the problem and rebuild Nigeria’s standing on the pitch.
“AFCON is a chance to carry again that worry, however provided that the crew delivers,” Oliseh mentioned.
Because the Tremendous Eagles put together for Morocco, Oliseh’s feedback underline the stress on the squad — not simply to compete, however to revive Nigeria’s standing as a real African powerhouse.
