Super Eagles at a Crossroads: Can Nigeria Avoid AFCON Disaster?

Nigerian football finds itself in a familiar bind. The Super Eagles’ failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup sparked predictable outrage. Now, former international Gbenga Okunowo raises a critical point: avoid knee-jerk reactions before the upcoming AFCON. He’s suggesting hasty changes to the squad or coaching staff now could spell disaster.

It’s a valid concern. Changing horses mid-race rarely works. The team is already demoralized. A complete overhaul right before a major tournament? That could backfire spectacularly.
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Okunowo’s perspective carries weight. He isn’t alone in advocating for stability. Yet, the calls for someone to be held accountable are getting louder. The question becomes: can the NFF resist pressure for change, trusting the current setup to deliver at AFCON? Or will they gamble on a shakeup, hoping for a quick turnaround?

It’s worth noting that continuity alone isn’t a guaranteed path to success. The players themselves must shoulder some of the blame. Okunowo challenges them to rediscover their passion. They need to demonstrate a renewed commitment to representing their nation.

Frankly, I’ve seen similar situations play out before. The pattern is usually the same: disappointment, followed by calls for sweeping reforms, and then, often, more disappointment. The key, as Okunowo points out, lies in meticulous planning and unwavering focus.
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The AFCON tournament offers a chance to redeem themselves. But, a misstep by the NFF in the coming weeks could easily turn World Cup failure into a full-blown AFCON catastrophe. The clock’s ticking. Nigeria’s football future hangs in the balance. Will they learn from past mistakes or repeat them?

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Keywords: Super Eagles, AFCON, Nigeria football, NFF, Okunowo, World Cup, coaching staff, squad