Former Nigeria international footballer Victor Ikpeba has attributed the Super Eagles’ challenging position in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers to the players, while dismissing calls for the resignation of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) executive committee.
Speaking on SuperSports, Ikpeba emphasized that the NFF has fulfilled its responsibilities by providing the team with everything needed for success.
“Our players should bear the majority of the blame for our poor performance thus far in the World Cup qualifiers,” Ikpeba stated.
“They have been given all the resources necessary to achieve qualification without difficulty, yet they have not met expectations.
“While I won’t question their commitment, Nigeria should not be struggling in our group given the quality of players we have.”
He further rejected the idea that the NFF leadership should resign, asking “do they expect committee members to come and play on the pitch?”
According to Ikpeba, the NFF has ensured solid travel arrangements, quality accommodation, and all necessary logistics, leaving the players with no excuses for their underperformance.
The Prince of Monaco also expressed support for the current Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle, describing him as the right choice to restore stability to the team.
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Ikpeba believes that Nigeria’s poor start to the qualifiers can be attributed to the two coaches who managed the team during the initial four matches.
“Chelle is doing a good job, and I believe we wouldn’t be in this situation if he had started the qualifiers with the Super Eagles,” Ikpeba remarked.
“He will create competition for places in the squad and utilize the talented players we have abroad.
“He hasn’t dismissed any players but is offering opportunities for different players to compete for a spot.”
Ikpeba also noted that off-field distractions pose a recurring issue within the team’s camp.
He urged the NFF to address disciplinary lapses and ensure that players maintain focus before and after matches.
“The biggest challenge for the Super Eagles is the distractions in camp before and after games. I expect the NFF to address this issue.
“Chelle can still lead Nigeria to the AFCON, regardless of the outcome of our World Cup bid,” he concluded.
