Former Super Eagles striker, Yakubu Aiyegbeni, has admitted that he would find it difficult to score goals if he were to play in Nigeria’s current national team. The ex-international made the revelation on Thursday, September 18, 2025, while assessing the state of the Super Eagles attack.
In his words, Yakubu said: “If I play in the current Super Eagles team, I’ll struggle to score goals. During my time, we had midfielders who created clear chances, and all I had to do was finish. But today, the supply is not the same.”
Furthermore, the former Everton and Middlesbrough forward stressed that Nigeria’s national team needs more creativity in midfield to support its strikers. According to him, without consistent service from playmakers, even the best forwards will find it hard to deliver.
He added: “Nigeria has talented attackers, but football is a team game. If the midfield cannot provide the right balls, strikers will suffer. That is why we need balance and better link-up play in the squad.”
Moreover, Yakubu urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and coaching staff to focus on improving tactical discipline and midfield chemistry ahead of crucial international fixtures.
Fans have since reacted to his comments, with many agreeing that the current Super Eagles lack the creativity once provided by past stars such as Jay-Jay Okocha, Wilson Oruma, and John Obi Mikel. Others, however, argued that modern strikers must adapt to create chances for themselves rather than rely heavily on midfield support.
Yakubu’s remarks underscore growing concerns about Nigeria’s attacking strength as the team prepares for upcoming World Cup qualifiers and the Africa Cup of Nations. His candid opinion has reignited debates over whether the Super Eagles possess the right balance to compete against top African and global teams.
