Football
Exclusive: Etebo Speaks Out: Super Eagles, AFCON 2025, and the Coaching Debate
Former Watford midfielder Oghenekaro Etebo reflects on Nigeria's shock defeat to Rwanda in AFCON 2025 qualifiers, discussing player management, coaching debates, and AFCON prospects. Emphasizing the importance of unity, discipline, and strong leadership, Etebo highlights the need to learn from mistakes and work together towards reclaiming the continental crown.
Laurence Griffiths/Getty Images.
In the wake of the Super Eagles' shock defeat to Rwanda during the AFCON 2025 qualifiers, former Watford midfielder Oghenekaro Etebo has broken his silence, addressing the fallout, ongoing debates over coaching choices, and Nigeria’s pursuit of a fourth continental title.
In an exclusive interview with SportsBoom.com, the midfield maestro shares his perspective on player management, team dynamics, and the path forward for the national team.
"We Can’t Underestimate Any Opponent": Etebo on Rwanda Loss
Etebo acknowledged the strategic decision to rest key players but stressed that the loss went beyond squad rotation.
“Resting key players is normal in football, especially in games where we feel we have the quality to still get the job done,” Etebo explained.
“But against Rwanda, I think it was a combination of factors; complacency, tactical lapses, and maybe even underestimating our opponents. The team needs to be more alert, especially in tournaments like AFCON, where no game is a walkover.”
The former Super Eagles midfielder urged the team to learn from the setback and emphasized the importance of depth in the squad.
“We can’t afford to repeat such mistakes on bigger stages. Every player, whether a starter or a backup, needs to step up and be ready to deliver. It’s the only way we can compete at the highest level.”
Etebo on Coaching: Indigenous vs. Foreign Leadership
The loss to Rwanda has reignited a fiery debate about the credibility of indigenous coaches leading the Super Eagles, with some questioning their ability to command the respect of foreign-based players. Etebo, however, dismissed the notion of disrespect, drawing from his own experiences.
“To be honest with you, I never witnessed any sign of disrespect for indigenous coaches during my time with the team,” he said. “I’ve worked under the likes of Samson Siasia and Austin Eguavoen, and there was always mutual respect. The idea that players don’t believe in local coaches is new to me.”
Etebo also highlighted the accomplishments of indigenous tacticians. “Let’s not forget Stephen Keshi, who won AFCON in 2013. The skepticism around local coaches often comes down to consistency and pressure, but they’ve proven they can deliver.”
When asked which type of coach would best suit the current squad, Etebo offered a pragmatic perspective: “For me, it’s not about where the coach comes from but whether they can inspire the team and get the best out of the players. A coach, whether indigenous or foreign, is the boss, and as professionals, players must respect that hierarchy.
"Without belief and cohesion, it doesn’t matter who is in charge.”
Talent Alone Isn’t Enough: Etebo on Nigeria’s AFCON Hopes
Looking ahead to AFCON 2025, Etebo remains optimistic but tempered his confidence with a dose of reality.
“We have the talent; there’s no doubt about that. But talent alone doesn’t win tournaments. It’s about discipline, strategy, and hunger. If we can fix the gaps we’ve seen in recent games, I believe we can go all the way and bring home the fourth title.”
The veteran midfielder emphasized the need for strong leadership within the squad. “AFCON is a unique challenge. It’s not just about skill but mentality. The team needs leaders who can motivate and guide the younger players during tough moments. That’s what makes the difference in crunch games.”
Final Thoughts: Unity Is Key
As the Super Eagles gear up for AFCON 2025, Etebo called for unity and support for whoever leads the team.
“At the end of the day, football is a team sport. Everyone; from the players to the coaching staff, must be on the same page. Unity, preparation, and execution are the keys to achieving our dreams of reclaiming the continental crown.”
Etebo’s insights reflect not only his experience on the pitch but also his deep understanding of what it takes to succeed at the highest level.
Whether under the guidance of an indigenous coach or a foreign tactician, Nigeria’s path to glory will hinge on belief, discipline, and the hunger to win.
Gbemidepo Popoola, is a freelance Sport Journalist with multiple years of experience in Writing, Reportage and Broadcasting. Gbemidepo's major concentration is telling the local Nigerian Sporting stories, in its own Unique way. This is because he believes, "no one, can tell our story better than ourselves".