AFCON: “Let’s not politicize this” — TV presenter on Nigeria

Arise TV presenter Rufai Oseni has criticized the Super Eagles following their defeat in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final against Ivory Coast on Sunday.

Rufai Oseni took to his Twitter account to express his disappointment with the team’s performance, labeling it as ‘woeful’ and highlighting their lack of attacking prowess, with just one shot on goal throughout the match.

In a series of tweets, Oseni wrote,

“Don’t politicize this loss, it’s not about politics, the team was woeful. We had just one shot on goal!

“We were terrible today. So upset I really hoped the boys would win it for those that died during the semifinals. That makes me sad. So let’s go back to our problems, food is expensive ooo.”

The Super Eagles, managed by Jose Peseiro, had initially taken the lead through William Troost-Ekong’s goal.

However, Ivory Coast staged a remarkable comeback, with Franck Kessie and Sebastien Haller finding the net to secure a 2-1 victory to clinch the AFCON trophy.

Oseni’s remarks reflect widespread disappointment among Nigerian football fans following the team’s failure to clinch the continental title. Despite high hopes and expectations, the Super Eagles fell short in the final showdown against Ivory Coast, leaving supporters disheartened.

The defeat serves as a stark reminder of the challenges facing Nigerian football.