Nigerian football icon Segun Odegbami has confessed he’s lost interest in the Super Eagles’ preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This follows Nigeria’s crushing failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The former star, who featured prominently during Nigeria’s golden football era, expressed his disillusionment during an interview with Inspiration FM in Uyo. Odegbami stated the World Cup qualification disappointment has deeply affected his enthusiasm for the national team.
“I’m not following their preparation for AFCON,” Odegbami declared. “Since our World Cup qualifiers exit, many of us have given up. Football is our business, and World Cup qualification represents the pinnacle.”
The 1980 AFCON winner offered a blunt assessment of the Super Eagles’ performance. He believes the team lacked the necessary quality and commitment to deserve World Cup participation.
“We didn’t truly merit a World Cup place,” Odegbami asserted. “We weren’t hardworking enough and simply weren’t good enough. That’s why I’m ignoring AFCON buildup activities and won’t attend the tournament.”
The 2025 AFCON kicks off on December 21. Nigeria’s Super Eagles have already arrived in Fes, Morocco for Group C clashes against Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda.
Odegbami’s Ongoing Sports Commitment
Despite his national team disenchantment, Odegbami remains active in sports development. The former Olympian recently visited Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno.
During the visit, he delivered a motivational address titled “Sports and I” to athletes. Cash rewards were also distributed to winners of the 2025 Akwa Ibom State Sports Festival and National Youth Games.
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