Dimeji Lawal Critiques Super Eagles After 3-0 Loss

Former Nigeria international Dimeji Lawal attributed the Super Eagles’ 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau on September 29 to an overreliance on overhyped players. The match, part of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign, saw goals from Franculino Djú, Mama Baldé, and Alvaró Djalo for Guinea-Bissau, leaving them at the top of Group L with six points.

Nigeria remains second with three points, while Madagascar and Tanzania have one point each. Speaking on BRILA Media, Lawal criticized Nigeria's strategy of recruiting foreign-born players, questioning their ability to adapt to African football's demands.

He compared the current squad unfavorably to past Super Eagles stars like Austin Okocha and Daniel Amokachi, who had strong foundations in African football before moving to Europe. Lawal warned against underestimating less-fancied teams, stating that victories are no longer guaranteed in African football.

Nigeria's next qualifying match is against Tanzania on November 11 in Uyo.