Super Eagles lack desire to face Portugal like Ghana – Etim Esin

Former Nigerian international, Etim Esin said the Super Eagles of Nigeria lacked the desire and patriotism to face Portugal.

The Nigeria legend’s comment is coming on the heels of   the Black Stars’ spirited display against Portugal at the 2022 FIFA World Cup despite a 3-2 controverial defeat to the Europeans on Thursday.

The same Portuguese side without Cristiano Ronaldo thrashed Nigeria 4-0 in an international friendly match last week, the former Super Eagles star further criticised the current national team players.

“Kudos to players of the Black Stars for their performance against Portugal,” Esin said on Brila FM.

“They really tried because it is not easy to score against a side like Portugal, especially with the caliber players they parade. But the same cannot be said of the Super Eagles players, the Ghanaian players are ready to die wearing their jersey but ours when they play it is as if they don’t want to get injured.

“For me, the Super Eagles players lack the desire and patriotism of the Ghanaian players because we saw how they fared against Portugal if not for one or two mistakes and Cristiano Ronaldo’s experience in helping his side get a penalty.”

The defeat meant all five African sides ended round one of the group stage without a win but Ghana scored Africa’s first two sets of goals in the tournament.