Ofure Akhigbe
Former Nigeria striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni has criticized the current Super Eagles squad, citing a lack of creativity and tactical cohesion as key reasons for their struggles in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Speaking on Sunday Oliseh’s podcast on September 17, Yakubu highlighted the team’s midfield as a major issue, noting that the dominance of defensive-minded players limits offensive opportunities. “When we look at the team, we have too many defensive midfielders. We don’t have a creative midfielder. If I play in this team, I’ll struggle to score goals. I’m telling you because when you look at Osimhen when he plays, he’s fighting because he knows already,” he said.
Yakubu also criticized the team’s passing style, pointing out that the midfield often resorts to sideways passes and long balls, leaving forwards isolated and reducing scoring chances.
The Super Eagles’ campaign in Group C has been underwhelming, with only two wins in eight matches, including draws against Zimbabwe, Lesotho, and South Africa. Yakubu attributed these results to poor tactics and a lack of cohesion.
He called for a tactical overhaul and the introduction of a creative midfielder to revitalize Nigeria’s attacking play.