The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is under mounting criticism for its delay in releasing the Super Eagles squad list ahead of next week’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff against Gabon in Rabat, Morocco.
With just five days to kickoff, fans and former players have expressed frustration at what they describe as a recurring pattern of administrative inefficiency.
Former Super Eagles striker Jonathan Akpoborie labeled the delay “typical of the NFF,” warning it could undermine the team’s preparation for one of the most crucial matches in recent years.
Uncertainty surrounds team readiness
Nigeria face Gabon in a single-leg semifinal on Thursday, November 13, with the winner advancing to meet either Cameroon or DR Congo in the final on November 16.
The overall winner will then proceed to the intercontinental playoffs for a place at the 2026 World Cup.
Sources close to the team say Coach Eric Chelle postponed finalizing the list to monitor the fitness of several key players, including Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, and William Troost-Ekong, all of whom have since been declared fit.
NFF’s silence raises eyebrows
Despite reports that players have been privately notified, the NFF has yet to make any official announcement.
In contrast, Gabon have named their 27-man squad, featuring Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Mario Lemina.
Growing fan frustration
The delay has sparked anger and mockery among Nigerian supporters on social media, with many accusing the NFF of habitual lateness.
One fan wrote on the Super Eagles’ official X page: “Your mates don post list, see wetin you dey do.”
Another asked: “Sey una go release list or not?”
A third quipped: “Those of una wey dey shout list list list, wetin una wan use the list do?”
The mounting criticism shows growing anxiety ahead of the playoff, as fans fear late preparations could cost the team dearly.
Having missed out on the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Nigerians are desperate for redemption, but patience with the football federation is wearing thin.
