The Nigeria Football Federation has issued a rare public criticism of Super Eagles players after their 1-1 draw with South Africa in a World Cup qualifier in Bloemfontein. The result leaves Nigeria’s hopes of automatic qualification hanging by a thread.
The federation singled out striker Cyriel Dessers, describing him as too slow to connect with passes and ineffective in attack before he was substituted at half-time. Captain William Troost-Ekong was also criticised for scoring an own goal in the 25th minute, which the NFF said dampened the team’s fighting spirit.
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Nigeria equalised just before half-time through Calvin Bassey, but the federation said the overall performance promised much and delivered little. The statement, however, credited South Africa for their early dominance.
The Super Eagles now face must-win matches against Lesotho and Benin Republic in their remaining qualifiers. They are on 11 points from eight games, but qualification is no longer entirely in their control.
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