Aiyegbeni Reveals How Overreliance On Osimhen Cost Nigeria World Cup Ticket

Aiyegbeni Reveals How Overreliance On Osimhen Cost Nigeria 2016 World Cup Ticket

Sampson Adedeji

Former Super Eagles striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni has blamed Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the team’s dependence on star forward Victor Osimhen, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Speaking on the Home Turf Podcast, Aiyegbeni expressed disappointment over the lack of competition and urgency among other strikers in the national team, insisting that Osimhen has been carrying the entire attacking responsibility alone.

“When you see the lineup, it was a red flag because we only had one striker in that team,” Yakubu said.

“We have four other strikers, but only one delivers. Only one plays like a madman on the pitch. He’s aggressive and livid when things go wrong.”

The former Everton and Portsmouth star lamented that, unlike his era, which featured fierce competition among top forwards such as Julius Aghahowa, Obafemi Martins, and Victor Agali, the current crop appears too comfortable.

 “Back in my days, everyone wanted to play. If I were on the bench, I would be vexed. But these players accept that Victor is the deserving starter,” he continued.

 “Don’t get me wrong, Victor is number one, one of the best in the world, but the other strikers are not ready to play. When they come in, they have no impact, so when Osimhen doesn’t play, we go nowhere.”

 Yakubu also explained that he knew Nigeria’s chances were slim the moment Osimhen limped off in the crucial second-leg clash against DR Congo.

 “The moment Osimhen went out against DR Congo, I knew the game was finished. Congo were much better in the second half and in extra time. They passed the ball better.”

The legendary forward didn’t hold back in his assessment of the technical approach during the match.

“We were tactless. No game plan. The boys were just doing what they thought was right.”

Nigeria failed to qualify after losing the playoff tie to DR Congo, ending hopes of appearing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup a massive disappointment for fans and analysts alike.