Oguntunwase Slams NFF Technical Department Over Super Eagles’ World Cup Playoff Exit

EXCLUSIVE: Oguntunwase Slams NFF Technical Department Over Super Eagles’ World Cup  Playoff Exit

By Rasheed Adewuyi | New York

Former Nigeria international Jide Oguntunwase has criticised the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) technical department for failing to hold Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle accountable after the team’s painful elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

In an exclusive interview with *Jerseynumber12* on Thursday, the ex-Golden Eaglets winger expressed disappointment over what he described as “technical deficiencies” that led to Nigeria’s 4-3 penalty shootout loss to DR Congo in Rabat, following a 1-1 draw after extra time.

“We lost because of technical issues. Our boys played at a fraction of their abilities against the Congolese,” Oguntunwase said. “They weren’t anywhere near the level they reached against Gabon in the semi-final.”

The defeat ended Nigeria’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with DR Congo advancing to the inter-confederation playoffs. This marks the second consecutive World Cup Nigeria will miss after failing to qualify in 2022.

Oguntunwase called on NFF Technical Director Augustine Eguavoen to issue a formal query to Coach Chelle and demand explanations over the team’s failure. “Someone must take responsibility. This is about accountability to the federation and the taxpayers,” he said.

On the players, the former forward accused many of lacking hunger and commitment throughout the qualifiers, including under former coaches Finidi George and José Peseiro. “We need to start inviting players who are genuinely committed to playing for the badge,” he said. “There are plenty of talented, passionate players at home and abroad.”

When asked if the NFF board should resign, Oguntunwase held a more nuanced view. “If the board members failed to pay players their bonuses and allowances, then yes, they should resign. But selection and tactics were the coach’s responsibility.”

The Super Eagles’ early exit has triggered a wave of public backlash, echoing the reactions after the 2022 World Cup disappointment. Fans have taken to social media and public spaces to express outrage, demanding structural reforms within Nigerian football and better accountability from administrators.

Oguntunwase’s comments add to growing calls for introspection and reform in Nigerian football following another missed opportunity on the global stage.