Former Nigerian worldwide Gbenga Okunowo has issued a powerful warning to the Nigeria Soccer Federation (NFF), insisting that any try to overhaul the Tremendous Eagles’ squad or teaching setup simply weeks earlier than the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) may result in outright catastrophe.
Nigeria continues to be reeling from its painful failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, however Okunowo believes this isn’t the time for panic or impulsive selections.
As an alternative, he argues, the main target should shift instantly to making ready correctly for the AFCON scheduled to carry in Morocco from December 21, 2025 to January 18, 2026.
Based on the previous Barcelona right-back, requires sweeping adjustments within the group or the technical crew may destabilise the already shaken squad.
“We’ve missed the World Cup, however tearing this group aside now—so near AFCON—might be disastrous,” Okunowo cautioned. He urged the NFF to permit the present head coach to stay in cost till after the event, stressing that continuity is crucial if Nigeria hopes to regain momentum.
Okunowo additionally positioned accountability squarely on the gamers, insisting it’s time they rediscover their starvation and dedication.
“The gamers should get up, appropriate their errors, and begin rewriting the story from the AFCON in Morocco,” he mentioned.
He emphasised that regardless of the frustration of lacking a second consecutive World Cup, the AFCON presents the proper alternative for the group to revive pleasure and rebuild belief with followers. What Nigeria wants now, he mentioned, is obvious planning, unity, and focus, not chaos.
With simply weeks left earlier than Africa’s greatest soccer competitors kicks off, Okunowo’s warning rings loud:
One unsuitable transfer from the NFF, and Nigeria dangers turning a World Cup failure into an AFCON disaster.
