This post is not borne out of mere hurt or disappointment, but to try and change the narrative of condoning mediocrity in Nigeria.

As some commenters highly observed on the recurring fire incidents in the country, we are a people who are fond of simply "moving on" from a national problem. There has to be an attitudinal change, starting with this footballing matter.

Prior to the start of the ongoing U-17 male world cup, there had been allegations of nepotism in the team selection for Nigeria's representatives at the tournament. However, the purpose of this article is not to get into that argument, but to focus on the actual performance of the team in the competition.

While every competition must have winners and losers, there is a consensus of public opinion that the turn out of the Nigerian team at the tournament has been substandard and dissatisfactory.

In fact, it seems like the coaching crew was only concerned with selecting players into the team and cared less about developing a workable approach to the tournament.

Even on occasions where the team managed to scrape out a win, the individual/general performance always called for sober reflection. 50% win rate out of 4 matches might seem impressive on paper, but an unbiased assessment was will show that this was down to luck than it was tactical intelligence.

The team seemed to rely on individual brilliance mostly but employed the wrong tactics against each opponent. Ideally, it looked like there was little effort devoted to studying and understanding each opponent. So it meant the team approached all their games in the same style, which was bound to fail sooner than later.

There was also the point about complacency; not improving as the tournament progressed, unlike the Netherlands who sent them packing eventually. The Dutch team who didn't enjoy a good start to the competition appeared to get better, as things went on.

Prevailing on the foregoing, it's pertinent to push for there to be consequences for mediocrity so that it doesn't become accepted as a way of life nationally.

So I wish to propose that:

1) The coaching crew is queried about the allegations of pervasive mediocrity in the team. Failure to defend this should attract sanctions and possible suspension from national duties.

2) The team should be disbanded and the players suspended from higher national representations, for at least four years, until they imbibe team spirit in themselves.

3) A proper review of the team's participation and necessary recommendations for a better outing at subsequent competitions.


Now, I ask: what will be the best way to push for these to be done? Starting an online petition or sending a proper petition to the National Assembly.

Let's make this happen! I await your meaningful contributions.

Una can sha use words, do you know what abysmal means ?

Luckysbab:


The team seemed to rely on individual brilliance mostly but employed the wrong tactics against each opponent. Ideally, it looked like there was little effort devoted to studying and understanding each opponent. So it meant the team approached all their games in the same style, which was bound to fail sooner than later.

Individually the guys are good but lack proper coaching and tactical discipline.

Manu Garba is a scam !!!!

Give that same team to a good coach and watch as they'll put the world under their feet !

Samunique:
Individually the guys are good but lack proper coaching and tactical discipline.

Manu Garba is a scam !!!!

Give that same team to a good coach and watch as they'll put the world under their feet !

I guess we'll never know now.

CaptainStephen:
Una can sha use words, do you know what abysmal means ?

Thanks for bringing this up.


One of the meanings of abysmal is "immeasurably low". Measure this turnout to what has come to be known of Nigerian teams, then the word still fits in.

I however agree it might be such a strong word, though some will agree. I would substitute with "distasteful". That works?

This is what you get when you use Abokis to fill the team