Former Nigerian international Peter Nieketen has criticized the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) for their handling of the national team coaching situation. In an interview with Brila.net, Nieketen advised the NFF to organize themselves better and provide a conducive environment for the new national team coach.
Nieketen pointed out that if the NFF had planned better from the start, they would have hired a foreign coach right away, which could have prevented the current problems with Nigeria’s qualification process. He lamented, “If the NFF had initially planned to hire a foreign coach, there wouldn’t have been any issues.”
The former player also highlighted the NFF’s changing stance on hiring a foreign technical director, which they previously said was not possible due to financial constraints. “Now they are saying they will hire a foreign technical director, which they previously said was not possible. I don’t know how they plan to pay for this,” Nieketen said.
Nieketen’s criticism comes at a crucial time for Nigerian football, as the national team faces challenges in their qualification campaign. The NFF’s decision-making process and financial management have come under scrutiny, with questions being raised about their ability to provide a stable and supportive environment for the national team.
Furthermore, Nieketen called for greater commitment from national team players, urging them to show more dedication whenever they are called up for international duty. Player commitment has been an ongoing issue for the Super Eagles, with some players failing to report for national team duty or not giving their best performances.
The NFF must address these concerns if they want to see the national team succeed. Hiring a competent and experienced coach, providing adequate resources and support, and fostering a culture of commitment among the players are crucial steps towards achieving success on the international stage.
As the NFF navigates these challenges, it is essential that they prioritize the long-term development of Nigerian football. This includes investing in grassroots programs, improving the domestic league, and creating a clear pathway for young talent to reach the national team.
Peter Nieketen’s criticism of the NFF highlights the need for better planning, financial management, and player commitment in Nigerian football. The NFF must take these concerns seriously and work towards creating a strong foundation for the national team’s success. With the right leadership and support, the Super Eagles can once again become a force to be reckoned with in international football.
