Former Nigeria international Dimeji Lawal has admitted that the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the FIFA World Cup has become even more painful now that the tournament is underway without Nigeria.
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Speaking on the country’s absence from football’s biggest stage, Lawal said the disappointment serves as a stark reminder of the work that still needs to be done to restore Nigerian football to its former heights.
“It hurts even more now that the World Cup is ongoing,” Lawal said, adding that every match being played further highlights Nigeria’s absence from the global showpiece.
The former Super Eagles star, however, urged Nigerians to remain patient with head coach Eric Chelle, insisting that the Franco-Malian tactician deserves adequate time and support to rebuild the national team.
“We need to give Eric Chelle more time,” Lawal said.
According to him, meaningful progress can only be achieved if the coach is given stability and the necessary backing from stakeholders.
Lawal also challenged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to move beyond promises and implement practical measures capable of transforming the country’s football fortunes.
He stressed that the current situation should serve as a wake-up call for administrators and all stakeholders involved in the game.
Nigeria’s absence from the World Cup has continued to attract criticism from former players and supporters, with many calling for long-term reforms to prevent similar disappointments in future qualification campaigns.
Lawal believes rebuilding the Super Eagles will require patience, commitment and deliberate action from the football authorities if Nigeria is to return to competing regularly on the world stage.
