Former Nigeria international Femi Opabunmi has delivered a scathing assessment of the Super Eagles’ recent failings, insisting that missing back-to-back FIFA World Cups should serve as a brutal wake-up call for the players — many of whom he accuses of lacking genuine commitment to the national team.
Opabunmi, who represented Nigeria at the 2002 World Cup as a teenager, did not hold back. He questioned the mentality and dedication of the current squad, warning that their priorities appear skewed and far removed from the hunger that once defined the Super Eagles.
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Speaking with frustration, he described many of today’s players as “social media people,” claiming they arrive in camp more focused on content creation than football.
“They come with their tripods and cameras, just to show off,” Opabunmi said bluntly, lamenting what he sees as a decline in discipline and professionalism.
He argued that Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the last two World Cups should not be treated lightly. Instead, he said the setback must force players to reevaluate their attitude, work ethic and sense of responsibility to the nation.
“Missing two World Cups should wake them up,” he stressed. “This is not a joke — it’s a national embarrassment.”
Opabunmi insisted that the Super Eagles must rediscover the commitment, unity and hunger that once made the team one of Africa’s elite forces. He urged players to treat national duty with pride and seriousness, not as an avenue for online branding or personal promotion.
As Nigeria prepares for upcoming challenges, including the Africa Cup of Nations, his message is sharp:
Less content creation, more football. Less showing off, more fighting for the badge.
