Former Nigeria international Edema Fuludu has warned the Super Eagles not to underestimate any opponent ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, insisting Nigeria cannot afford another costly mistake.
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With the qualifiers set to begin in September, Fuludu urged the players and coaching crew to approach every fixture with maximum seriousness, regardless of the opposition.
“There are no easy games anymore,” Fuludu said.
The former Super Eagles midfielder dismissed suggestions that Nigeria’s qualifying group should be considered straightforward, arguing that African football has become increasingly competitive.
According to him, the days when traditional powerhouses could expect routine victories are long gone.
“Teams across Africa have improved and are catching up,” he added.
Fuludu pointed to Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup as a clear example of what can happen when opponents are underestimated.
He noted that the Super Eagles paid the price after dropping valuable points in matches many expected them to win comfortably.
“We were told the World Cup group was easy, but we all saw how it ended,” he stated.
The former international stressed that the warning signs are already there and called on the players to remain fully focused throughout the qualifying campaign.
Nigeria will begin its quest for another AFCON appearance later this year as head coach Eric Chelle continues preparations for the qualifiers.
Fuludu believes only the right mentality and complete commitment in every match will ensure the Super Eagles avoid another qualification setback.
