Former Nigeria head coach Johannes Bonfrère has criticised the Super Eagles’ struggles in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, describing their performances as “embarrassing” after a 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in Uyo, Footynaija.com reports.
Bonfrère, who famously led Nigeria’s U23 side to gold at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, expressed his frustration over the team’s inability to secure victories.
Speaking from his home in the Netherlands, he questioned whether Nigeria could qualify for the World Cup under Eric Chelle.
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“How do you qualify if you don’t win matches?” Bonfrère asked.
“In the past, if we didn’t beat Zimbabwe 3-0 or 4-0, the fans would be furious. Now, Nigeria is struggling against teams they should be beating comfortably.”
Nigeria’s qualifying campaign has been underwhelming so far. The Super Eagles have played six matches, winning just once.
Their full record is:
Matches Played: 6
Wins: 1
Draws: 4
Losses: 1
Total Points: 7
Nigeria started their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign with a 1-1 draw against Lesotho, followed by another 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe. They then lost 2-1 to Benin after managing yet another 1-1 draw with South Africa. The Super Eagles finally secured their first victory with a 2-0 win over Rwanda, thanks to Victor Osimhen’s brace.
That win was followed with another frustrating draw against Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo. And, as it stands, the Super Eagles remains fourth in Group C with 7 points, six behind leaders South Africa.
Bonfrère, who previously advised Nigeria to hire a foreign coach, questioned both Chelle’s tactics and the players’ execution, according to a quote published by Complete Sports.
“I didn’t watch the game, but did the coach have enough information on Zimbabwe? Did he use the right tactics? Or did the players fail to follow instructions?” he asked.
He also criticised the Super Eagles’ attack, saying:
“If they had taken their chances, Zimbabwe’s late goal wouldn’t have mattered. But now, smaller teams don’t fear Nigeria anymore. That’s worrying.”
With tough fixtures still ahead, Chelle will need to find answers quickly or risk missing out on the World Cup.
