Ikpeba, a former Nigerian International, also said the Super Eagles players “didn’t do well for themselves and the fans.”
By Kehinde Okeowo
Former Nigerian winger, Victor Ikpeba urged Super Eagles handlers to invite new players into the team.
He gave the advice while featuring on SuperSport TV programme, ‘Monday Night Football’.
His assertion followed Super Eagles’ disappointing 2-1 loss to the Amavubi of Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Monday night.
Nigeria’s interim coach, Augustine Eguavoen made seven changes to his starting line-up opting to bench the likes of Victor Osimhen, Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi during the encounter.
The decision, however, backfired as
Super Eagles put up a shambolic display and surrendered their unbeaten run in the qualifiers.
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Speaking on the show after the match, Ikpeba, a former African Player of the Year, expressed disappointment with the team’s performance and outcome of the game.
He said, “I am disappointed with the result and the performance of the team.
“This was a chance for the other players in the squad to show whether they are good enough to be part of the national team.
“Unfortunately, they failed to turn up, they didn’t do well for themselves and the fans.
“There is therefore a need for new players to be called up so as to create more competition in the team.”
Prior to the match, Rwanda head coach, Torsten Spittler, had promised fans of the East African nation that his players will give their all and try to beat the Super Eagles.
The German while addressing journalists during his pre-match press conference said, “It’s clear that if we must go to AFCON 2025, we’ll have to win here [against the Super Eagles].
“So, that’s our mission here. I’m expecting an interesting match against Nigeria, and we’ll have to fight until the last minute.”