Former Super Eagles left-back Juwon Oshaniwa has voiced concerns about the team’s readiness ahead of the upcoming World Cup playoffs, warning that the road to qualification will be anything but easy.
Speaking after Nigeria’s emphatic win in their last group game, Oshaniwa admitted that while the result reignited hope among fans, the team’s overall performance through the qualifiers raises important questions about consistency and preparation.
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“The way we started the qualifiers wasn’t encouraging,” Oshaniwa said. “It took a while for the players to meet up with the demands, and now the playoffs present a tougher and longer route. It won’t be easy, but they must stay focused.”
He stressed that the players have to approach the playoff games with greater discipline and mental strength, as the opponents will be more determined and physically demanding.
According to Oshaniwa, the Super Eagles cannot afford complacency at this stage, as one poor outing could end their World Cup dreams.
“The players have raised the hopes of Nigerians with their recent results,” he added. “But football is about consistency. They must keep improving because this next phase is where the real test begins.”
Oshaniwa, who featured for Nigeria at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, urged the technical crew to fine-tune the team’s tactical shape and make early preparations to ensure full fitness and cohesion ahead of the crucial fixtures.
He concluded by emphasizing that while the Super Eagles have the talent to succeed, the difference between qualification and heartbreak will depend on mentality and proper organization.
