Former Nigeria international Femi Opabunmi has criticised the current Super Eagles, questioning their passion and discipline, while praising Victor Osimhen as the only one always giving his all for the team, Footynaija.com reports.
The ex-World Cup winger, who was once tipped as one of Nigeria’s brightest young talents, expressed disappointment at what he sees as a drop in commitment compared to his playing days.
According to him, the team may be loaded with big names across Europe, but their performances for the national side have not matched the quality of their clubs.
“What I can see in our national team is that we have many great players. But now, the commitment is not there like before. The discipline and passion to wear the green white green jerseys are lacking currently,” Opabunmi said in a report by Punch.
He went on to praise Osimhen’s consistency and strong mentality, saying the striker’s attitude should be a model for the rest of the team.
“Victor Osimhen always plays with all his heart and passion, as if he wanted to die on the pitch. The way he plays for his club side, that’s the way he always gives his 200 per cent in the national team,” he added.
The comments show how much the Galatasaray striker now stands for Nigeria’s fighting spirit in recent qualifiers.
From netting crucial goals in Kigali to being badly missed when injured, Osimhen’s presence or absence has often made the difference for the Super Eagles.
Opabunmi also mentioned that Ademola Lookman shows similar hunger when representing Nigeria, but urged the rest of the squad to raise their levels if the team is to reach its goals.