Former Nigeria stars Christian Obodo criticizes Super Eagles over lack of personality

By Saheed Afolabi

Former Nigeria international, Christian Obodo has criticized the current national team set up for showing lack of commitment, quality and impact in the country’s colours.

The Super Eagles failed to qualify for the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup in November and returned to international scene with a shocking 1-0 defeat to Guinea Bissau in Abuja before an avenging 1-0 win on away ground in March.

Disappointed by the team’s form, bundle of skills as fondly called, Obodo feels the current crop of Super Eagles players lack creativity and flair to unlock opposing defense.

“I feel they lack the personality, they don’t know the right time to do it. In a country like ours, fans don’t forgive mistakes and this could affect a player’s confidence.

“It was a problem for a player like Jay Jay Okocha, who could show his skills unhindered even in his sleep. Same for me, Kanu Nwankwo too and some other gifted Super Eagles players.

“So I believe they lack the personality for the dribbling skills. If you want to entertain your fans and show your skills, you need to have confidence and and kill all form of stage fright and fear.

“You will notice that there are some players who perform well for their clubs but end up as flops for their national team. I believe they need the personality and confidence to express themselves freely.”

The Super Eagles top the CAF AFCON 2024 qualifying group A with nine points and are closely followed by Guinea Bissau on seven points from four matches.

A win or draw against Sierra Leone for the Nigeria national team would guarantee their place in the 2024 AFCON.