Former Super Eagles coach Sunday Oliseh has joined the growing criticism of Nigeria’s failure to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup, arguing that the team’s problems lie more in organisation than in talent.

In comments shared by the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), Oliseh said Nigeria’s build-up play was too slow and predictable, allowing opponents to close down space before the team could move the ball forward.

He noted that although the squad boasts top players, the team struggled to translate individual quality into a coherent performance.

“The time it takes to win the ball, get it under control and play it forward is simply too long,” he said. “By the time the ball moves, the space has already disappeared. We have good players, but the organisation and technical sharpness are just not there.”

Oliseh singled out Victor Osimhen, describing the Napoli forward as “an exceptional player” whose ability was not being fully utilised.

“You cannot have someone like Osimhen in your team and still end up missing the World Cup,” he added.

Nigeria’s exit has reopened long-standing questions about coaching decisions, tactical direction and broader football administration as the country comes to terms with another World Cup miss.

–ChannelAfrica–