Former Super Eagles forward Femi Opabunmi has raised fresh concerns about the state of the national team heading into the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, revealing that disharmony and unresolved rifts exist among the players, a situation he believes could jeopardize Nigeria’s chances at the tournament.
Opabunmi, who famously represented Nigeria at the 2002 World Cup, said the lack of unity in the squad is becoming increasingly visible, warning that players who do not trust or respect each other cannot succeed on the continent’s biggest stage.
“The players are not united. I can feel the disharmony in the team,” he stated.
He added that behind-the-scenes tensions and interpersonal conflicts have created an unhealthy atmosphere, with some players seemingly unable to put aside personal differences for the collective goal.
“There are unsettled rifts among some of them. You can see it in their body language and the way they relate on and off the pitch,” he explained.
Opabunmi stressed that no amount of talent can compensate for internal division, especially at AFCON, a tournament where strong team chemistry and mental toughness often outweigh individual brilliance.
“You cannot win AFCON if players are pulling in different directions. Nigeria must be united to succeed,” he warned.
He urged the players to display maturity, professionalism, and respect for one another, insisting that the badge on the shirt must always come before personal interests.
“The boys must tolerate and respect each other. They are representing millions of Nigerians, they cannot let personal issues define the team,” he said.
Opabunmi also called on the coaching staff to intervene and foster a stronger sense of togetherness within the group, arguing that leadership is required both on and off the pitch.
“The coaches must encourage unity. Good football starts from a good dressing room,” he noted.
Despite the concerns, Opabunmi believes the situation can still be salvaged if the players act quickly.
“It’s not too late. If they fix their differences and play as one family, Nigeria can still do well in Morocco,” he concluded.
