Sunday Mba Slams Super Eagles’ World Cup Qualifying Performance: “We Shouldn’t Be in This Mess”
Former Super Eagles midfielder Sunday Mba, famous for scoring the winning goal that handed Nigeria the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations title, has voiced his disappointment over the national team’s performance in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Nigeria failed to secure an automatic qualification ticket after finishing behind South Africa in their group — a result that has left many fans and football veterans frustrated. The Super Eagles, now facing an uphill battle, must go through the playoffs against Gabon in November to stand a chance of making it to the tournament.
Speaking with Super Eagles media officer Ayo Olu Ibidapo, Mba did not mince words as he assessed the team’s recent outings.
“I am not impressed with the Super Eagles. If you are a true follower of football in Nigeria, you won’t be happy with what the Super Eagles are doing,” Mba said.
“Let’s not lie or be sentimental. If we had won all our matches, we would not be in this mess now.
Imagine the number one team in West Africa struggling for a playoff spot, which we are not even sure of.”
Mba’s remarks echo the growing frustration among fans who have watched the once-feared Super Eagles struggle to find rhythm and consistency on the pitch despite their pool of talented players plying their trade in Europe’s top leagues.
⚽ Opinion: Sunday Mba Is Right — The Super Eagles Need More Than Talent to Fly Again
Sunday Mba’s honest take is one many Nigerians quietly agree with. The Super Eagles’ recent performances have been a shadow of the glory days — sluggish, uninspired, and lacking the hunger that once made them Africa’s most exciting team.
Yes, Nigeria boasts incredible talent: Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, and others. But talent alone doesn’t win matches — team spirit, tactical discipline, and leadership do. What we’ve seen lately is a team rich in skill but poor in identity.
Mba’s comments cut deep because they come from a player who once embodied the Super Eagles’ fighting spirit — the underdog who rose to national hero in 2013. His message isn’t just criticism; it’s a wake-up call.
The World Cup playoffs are now the Super Eagles’ last chance to redeem themselves. But for that to happen, the team must rediscover the passion that made the green and white jersey a symbol of pride, not frustration.
If they don’t, Mba’s words will become a sad reminder that Nigeria’s biggest opponent isn’t South Africa or Gabon — it’s complacency.
