National Teams
World Cup Qualifier: Peter Rufai bashes Super Eagles over poor first half vs Bafana
By Saheed Afolabi
Peter Rufai, a former Nigeria international, has criticized the national team players for failing to meet expectations in their recent match against Bafana Bafana.
The Super Eagles managed a 1-1 draw with South Africa in Uyo, coming from behind to salvage a point.
Rufai acknowledged that the Eagles struggled to find their rhythm in the first half but showed more aggression and determination after the break.
Despite creating several scoring opportunities, they were unable to secure a victory.
“They started the first half in a not too explosive way like they did in the second half,” Rufai commented to Afrosport.
“In the second half, we saw a Super Eagles that was explosive and wanted to take the South Africans to the cleaners. But then, that is where I think they allowed Bafana Bafana to come into the game in the first half.”
Rufai expressed concern that a negative result against Benin could further jeopardize Nigeria’s chances of qualifying for the World Cup. However, he remains optimistic about the team’s prospects.
“The game against Benin will determine how far the team will go, but I am optimistic the Super Eagles will still qualify from the group.”
With the Super Eagles yet to secure a win in three matches and currently sitting in fifth place with three points, Rufai’s sentiments reflect the growing pressure on the team to deliver results in the remaining qualifiers.