In The Aftermath Of Nigeria’s 1-1 Draw With South Africa In The FIFA World Cup Qualifier, The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) Has Moved To Clarify A Controversial Press Statement Issued By Its Communications Department, Reaffirming Its Support For The Super Eagles As The Team Continues Its Qualification Journey.
A Post-Match Press Release from The NFF’s Communications Department appeared to criticize The Performances Of Team Captain William Troost-Ekong, who scored an own goal, and Striker Cyril Dessers, Who Struggled To Make An Impact.
However, in a telephone conversation with AIT.live Chief Sports Correspondent Omonfoma Ebare, NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi distanced the Federation From The Statement.
acknowledging the disappointment of not securing all three points, but commending the players for their patriotism, resilience, and commitment to the National Cause.
“I Saw It Just Like You Saw It, And Nobody In The Headquarters Was Happy With That Release. NFF did not direct it; NFF has respect for all the players, And It Was A Collective Responsibility. When we win, it isn’t an individual. And if we lose, there should not be blame for any individual player. It Was A Collective One. Nobody Was Happy. And We Are Not Happy That An Individual Is Singled Out. “
He Added I Can Tell You That Both The Nigeria Football Federation And The National Sports Commission And Indeed The Government Of Nigeria Are Happy With The Players. We Are Not Happy With The Results, But We Are Happy With The Players Because They Have Given In Their Very Best.
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Sanusi emphasized that the NFF did not approve the statement and reassured The Public that the Federation remains fully behind the team as they strive for World Cup Qualification.
I can tell you that both the Nigeria Football Federation and the national sports commission, and indeed the government of nigeria are happy with the players. We are not happy with the results, but we are happy with the players because they have given their very best.
The 1-1 Draw against South Africa leaves Nigeria third in Group C, with 11 points from eight matches, and still very much in The Race for a place at The 2026 FIFA World Cup in The United States, Canada, and Mexico.
(Editor: Ena Agbanoma)
