Former Nigeria international Peterside Idah has voiced his displeasure with the Super Eagles following their shocking 2-1 defeat to Rwanda in the final game of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
The Super Eagles, who had already secured their place in the tournament, aimed to maintain their unbeaten record in the qualifiers but were stunned by a determined Rwandan side at home in Uyo.
Despite taking the lead through AC Milan forward, Samuel Chukwueze, in the second half, defensive lapses allowed Rwanda to secure a comeback victory.
Reacting to the disappointing result, Peterside criticised the inclusion of certain players in the national team setup, and suggested some do not merit the honour of wearing the Super Eagles jersey.
“This game was unnecessary, but it has taught me there are players that should not be in the national team again. It’s not everybody that should get a national team invite,” Peterside remarked.
The defeat has sparked widespread criticism from fans in the Nigerian football community, with many questioning the squad selection and tactical approach.
Rwanda’s victory ultimately had no impact on the group standings, as they fell short of qualifying for AFCON 2025. Nigeria finished as group leaders, with Benin joining them in securing a ticket to the tournament in Morocco.
For the Super Eagles, the focus now shifts to the World Cup qualifiers, with the team needing to regroup and address the issues spotlighted by this unexpected loss.
Shina Oludare is a distinguished sports journalist and managing editor, renowned for his comprehensive coverage of African football. His dedication to elevating African sports on the global stage has earned him widespread respect, along with numerous accolades for his contributions. A graduate of the LaLiga Business School in Madrid, Oludare’s passion for sports and his influential work in African football journalism have established him as a leading figure in the industry.
