Football
Exclusive: Goalkeeper Ojo Olorunleke Weighs in on Nigeria's Shock Loss to Rwanda
In a historic upset, Nigeria suffered a shocking defeat to Rwanda. Goalkeeper Ojo Olorunleke emphasized the need to learn from the loss and stay focused. The key takeaways include better service to strikers, rediscovering the team's identity, and stepping up performance. Nigeria must bounce back in upcoming World Cup qualifiers.
Ojo Olorunleke Facebook page.
The Nigerian national team suffered a stunning 2-1 defeat at the hands of Rwanda in their final game of 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, leaving fans and pundits alike scratching their heads.
Super Eagles and Al-Merrikh SC goalkeeper, Ojo Olorunleke congratulated the team and all Nigerians on the qualification success but however, said Monday's defeat to Rwanda served as a valuable lesson, we mustn't repeat such mistakes going forward.
"This isn't the time for blame-shifting towards coaches, NFF, or players. No athlete intentionally underperforms or seeks to lose. The players' dedication and hard work in training are undeniable."
Ojo is a former youth international for Nigeria, and was called up to the Nigeria U20s for the 2015 African U-20 Championship where they became champions. In May 2018, he was called up to the Nigeria B national team for a friendly against Atlético de Madrid.
In May 2022, Ojo received his first call-up to the Super Eagles and made the final squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire where he won silver medal with the team.
A HISTORIC UPSET
Rwanda, determined to build on their unimpressive 0-1 lost at home to Libya, defeated Nigeria 2-1in a thrilling encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo for first time in the country's history after 6 meetings between both countries.
Despite Nigeria's convincing 1-1 draw away to Benin Republic at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan last Thursday, Rwanda's resilient performance caught the West African giants off guard.
OJO's EXPERT ANALYSIS
As a seasoned goalkeeper, Ojo attributed the loss to a combination of factors.
"Nigeria underestimated Rwanda's determination and grit," Ojo said in an exclusive interview with SportsBoom.com. "Rwanda's team spirit and organization caused problems, and Nigeria couldn't capitalize on scoring opportunities."
A WAKE-UP CALL
Rwanda's resilient display at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo caught Nigeria off guard, despite their convincing 1-1 draw away to Benin Republic last Thursday.
"The Super Eagles' loss serves as a wake-up call. In modern African football, there are no underdogs. Many teams have improved significantly, boasting players who excel abroad, just like the Super Eagles. Every country is now benefiting from this privilege.
"To succeed, Nigeria must approach each match with utmost seriousness and respect for their opponents. Complacency has no place in today's competitive African football landscape."
LESSONS FOR THE SUPER EAGLES
As an integral member of the 2023 AFCON silver medal winning goalkeeper, Ojo urged the team to learn from the setback back.
"Football has evolved significantly, and this experience serves as a valuable lesson: never underestimate any opponent. Our loss stems from complacency, having already qualified. If we hadn't secured qualification, I'm certain we would've approached the game differently.
"Football is unpredictable, even at the highest level. We must learn from this and take all matches seriously, regardless of the outcome's significance. Considering the fans and country's interest, every game deserves our utmost attention.
"Monday's game may be lost, but the lesson remains: stay focused, respect every opponent, and give our best effort always. "Players must take responsibility and step up their game."
PATH FORWARD
Nigeria's next match in the World Cup qualifiers is against Rwanda on 17th March, 2025 takes on added significance, with the Super Eagles seeking redemption.
Ojo words serve as a rallying cry: "Nigeria owes it to themselves, their fans, and Nigerian football to bounce back stronger.
"The Super Eagles have the talent and quality to overcome this setback. "They must stay focused, work together, and believe in themselves, Ojo concluded."
Adeleye Gbenga S is a well-known Nigerian sports journalist with over 14 years of experience in writing, reportage and extensive coverage of Nigerian football. Having begun his career with Grassroots Searchlight Newspaper for almost two years and as an editor with FreekickNaija.com.ng .