The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has distanced itself from a post-match statement criticizing several Super Eagles players after the team’s 1-1 tie with South Africa in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
Ademola Olajire, the NFF’s Director of Communications, criticized forward Cyriel Dessers and captain William Troost-Ekong in his comments.
It chastised Dessers for being lethargic and blamed Ekong for the own goal that handed Bafana Bafana the advantage.
On Wednesday, NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi clarified that the remark did not represent the Federation’s official position.
“I saw the release just like everyone else did. Nobody in the Federation is happy with it,” Sanusi said.
“The NFF did not authorize that statement. We have great respect for all the players. Blaming an individual for a team result is unfair.”
He also stated that the Federation regards the South Africa match as a collective effort and will not support attempts to scapegoat any player.
“When we win, it’s a team victory. When we lose, it’s also collective. No player should be singled out,” Sanusi said.
He called the targeted criticism of Troost-Ekong unwarranted, adding that the defender had previously been named Most Valuable Player at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire.
“It was an unfortunate own goal. His intention was to clear the ball. Anyone who knows football understands that such things happen,” he said.
Sanusi also voiced faith in the team’s cohesiveness, noting that preparations were underway to recover and refocus ahead of the remaining qualifiers and AFCON.
“Our house is in order. We’re preparing for the rest of the qualifiers and the AFCON in Morocco,” he said.
“There’s no problem with our players or coaching crew. Our relationship remains cordial. The government and the NFF are proud of the players’ efforts.”
The NFF had initially praised Calvin Bassey for his equalizing goal and lamented the team’s failure to convert second-half chances.
However, Sanusi clarified that internal disciplinary action would be taken over the unauthorized release.
“I can assure you the NFF will take action on the matter,” he said.
Nigeria is currently third in Group C of the CAF World Cup qualifiers, with 11 points from eight matches. South Africa leads the group with 17 points.
To qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Super Eagles must now win their remaining games against Lesotho and the Benin Republic, as well as hope for other favorable results.
