Football analyst, Uchenna Okoli, has urged the Super Eagles to draw inspiration from the unyielding fighting spirit of the Super Falcons, following the Nigerian women’s dramatic comeback victory over Morocco in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) final.
Speaking during a media chat in Owerri on Sunday, Okoli said the resilience and mental strength shown by the Super Falcons should serve as a benchmark for the Super Eagles as they struggle to find form in the ongoing FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
“The Super Falcons were two goals down at halftime but didn’t lose hope. They came out stronger in the second half, leveled the score, and went on to win it 3-2. That’s the heart of champions. The Eagles need to watch that game and learn what it means to fight for your country.”Okoli stated
He lamented that the Super Eagles, despite having players in some of Europe’s top leagues, lack the cohesion, hunger, and national pride required to deliver results under pressure.
“These players earn millions abroad, but when it’s time to deliver for Nigeria, there’s always something missing. They lack urgency, character, and that ‘never-say-die’ mentality That’s why the team keeps wobbling in crucial qualifiers.”he said.
Okoli expressed concern that if the Super Eagles fail to win their remaining matches in the World Cup qualification series, Nigeria could miss out on the global showpiece—a scenario that would be disastrous for the nation’s football image.
“Nigeria risks not qualifying for the World Cup for the second time in a row. That would be unacceptable. The boys need to wake up. They need to play with fire in their hearts like the Super Falcons,” he warned.
The analyst emphasized that beyond talent, success in international football comes down to commitment and teamwork.
“Football is not just about individual skill. It’s about the team, the mindset, the passion to wear the green-white-green with honor. The Falcons showed us how it’s done.”he noted
Okoli also called on the coaching crew of the Super Eagles to instill more discipline, mental conditioning, and unity in the squad, stressing that only a complete shift in mentality will salvage Nigeria’s World Cup dreams.
“Let them know the stakes. Let them fight for every ball, every goal, every point. That’s what the Falcons did. That’s what the Eagles must do now if they truly want to fly,” he concluded.
