AFCON 2027 Race: Ikpeba Questions Chelle Attacking Options

By Saheed Afolabi

Former Nigeria international, Victor Ikpeba has questioned the national team attacking clique in the 3-0 loss to Guinea Bissau on Tuesday.

Ikpeba assessed Nigeria’s performance, expressing his disappointment with the decision not to start some of the team’s younger attacking options when those who started the game failed to step up.

“The likes of Akor, Ademola, [and] Awoniyi cannot step up. The young George didn’t start the game. I thought he could have started,” Ikpeba said.

The former Monaco forward also singled out Moses Usor, suggesting that the player should have been included in the starting line-up.

“I thought Moses Usor should have started the game. That fighting spirit that we are wearing the green and whites should be there in their minds.”

Ikpeba’s comments come amid scrutiny of the Super Eagles following their recent result, with the team facing questions over their attacking effectiveness and the contributions of their forwards.

The 1997 African Footballer of the Year believes Nigeria must show zeal, determination when representing the country, particularly in matches where the team needs players to take responsibilities and make a difference.