Former Super Eagles winger Dimeji Lawal has issued a strong warning to Nigeria ahead of the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, insisting that discipline, unity, and humility must be the foundation of the team if they hope to challenge for the title.
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Lawal said that past failures, including missing two consecutive World Cup tournaments, have shown that talent alone is not enough, stressing that internal behaviour, commitment, and professionalism often determine how far a team goes in major competitions.
“We need discipline in the squad. No player should act bigger than the team, not now, not at AFCON,” Lawal stated firmly.
He emphasised the importance of maintaining harmony in camp, warning that even a single individual’s ego or poor attitude can disrupt the team’s balance. He argued that players must understand that they are representing over 200 million people, not just themselves.
In a candid moment, Lawal mentioned Victor Osimhen as an example, praising the striker’s world-class talent but pointing to recurring issues that must be addressed.
“Osimhen is a fantastic player, but why does he struggle to finish games for Nigeria? On TV he always looks committed, but small details matter,” he said.
Lawal also questioned the habit of arriving late to camp, something he says can disrupt preparations, affect tactical sessions, and send the wrong message to the rest of the squad.
“Even if you are the best player, coming late to camp affects the team. These little things decide results in tournaments,” he added.
He stressed that AFCON demands maximum focus and unity, and any form of indiscipline, whether from star players or squad members, could cost Nigeria dearly.
“At AFCON, nobody cares about your club form or your name. What matters is what you give the team,” he warned.
Lawal urged the coaching crew to select players who are mentally ready, not just technically gifted, emphasizing that hunger and humility remain Africa’s biggest weapons.
His closing message was sharp and uncompromising:
“If Nigeria wants to win AFCON, everybody must drop their ego and fight for one badge, nothing else.”
