Former Nigeria International Claims Super Eagles Lack “Intelligence”

• Nigeria are one of the biggest football teams on the African continent, but they have not played like a football giant in the last few years
• Despite producing top level footballers who have graced the biggest leagues in the world, the Super Eagles have flattered to deceive
• Former Nigeria international, Nduka Ugbade, has outlined that his nation lacks a distinct philosophy and prefers individual brilliance

Nigeria's impressive 2023 Africa Cup of Nations campaign seems like ages ago.

The team has a new coach, Finidi George, who reportedly has a feud with Victor Osimhen, and their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign is in tatters.

Former Super Eagles international, Nduka Ugbade, has said the team lacks a "philosophy" and "intelligence".

The three-time African champions have a reputation for producing elite footballers for the last 30 years. They have one of the best squads in Africa at the moment.

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However, their good squad has not always translated to success on the pitch. They have won two AFCON titles in 30 years.

They are at risk of missing the 2026 World Cup after a poor start in their qualifying campaign. In their first four games, they are yet to register a win.

Does Nigeria have a philosophy?

At the 2023 AFCON, Nigeria's then-coach, Jose Peseiro, employed a conservative approach that angered many fans despite proving successful.

Ugbadem, who also coached the Nigerian under-17 team, said the Super Eagles lack a defined style of play.

"Nigeria doesn't have a specific football philosophy, but what we can say we have ordinarily is the Brazilian style of football where individuals are creative and strong, reflecting our national characteristics," he said per Brila FM.

"Our food makes us strong and active, and we are fast. However, we haven't developed the intelligence and comprehensive information that Brazil has, that makes them outdo every nation on the planet until recently, that every nation is learning it."

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Ugbade is concerned about Nigeria's 2026 FIFA World Cup chances but is confident they can do it.

"Chances for our qualification for the 2026 World Cup are very slim. But in every difficulty, Nigeria always finds a way to do something."

Adepoju talks Nigeria's World Cup chances

Sports Brief exclusively reported earlier that Mutiu Adepoju, a former Super Eagles international, expressed his confidence in the Super Eagles' 2026 World Cup chances.

Adepoju said Nigeria can play at the World Cup if they win their remaining matches in Group C after failing to win their first four.