Former Super Eagles defender, Mobi Okparaku, has come to the defense of Nigeria’s national team amid widespread criticism that the squad is overly reliant on star striker Victor Osimhen.
Speaking in Lagos after Nigeria’s 4–0 demolition of Benin Republic, Okparaku dismissed the notion that the team is a “one-man show,” arguing that constant changes in coaching staff disrupted the team’s rhythm and chemistry throughout the qualifiers.
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Okparaku, a member of the golden 1994 generation that won the Africa Cup of Nations and dazzled at the USA ’94 World Cup, said the players have the quality and depth to compete at the highest level, but they have struggled to express themselves due to tactical inconsistency.
“People keep saying it’s all about Osimhen — that’s not true,” he stated. “When you change coaches frequently, players lose understanding of their roles. Every coach comes with a new system, and that takes time to adapt to.”
He added that while Osimhen’s brilliance and leadership are invaluable, football is a team sport that requires collective effort. “Osimhen is a world-class striker, no doubt, but he needs service. The defenders, midfielders, and wingers all play their parts in making the team click,” Okparaku said.
The former Enyimba captain also called on the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to prioritize continuity in technical leadership to allow the team to build a stable identity.
“We can’t keep starting from zero after every setback,” he warned. “If we give the coaching staff time and full support, the Super Eagles will dominate Africa again.”
Okparaku concluded by urging fans to rally behind the players rather than criticize them, reminding Nigerians that the journey to the 2026 World Cup is still alive.
“This team has character,” he said. “They’ve been through tough times, but they’re beginning to play like a unit again. That’s what will take us far.”
