Former Golden Eaglets coach, John Obuh has identified poor preparation and systemic interference as key factors behind the Nigeria’s recent slump at U17 level.
Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2026 U-17 AFCON, that will also serves as qualifier for the World Cup.
Obuh noted that assembling top coaches alone will not solve the problem.
The veteran coach reiterated that success at youth level depends heavily on a structured preparation process.
“Bringing the likes of Amuneke back, who won with the Eaglets, isn’t the issue it’s the attention being given to them that matters.
“If you give the team attention and work that team up to want to get results, you will definitely get results,” he said.
In a chat with Brila.net, Obuh further explained that undue interference from agents and administrators continues to hinder team selection.
“I think there is a lot of interruptions in the selection of players today.
“A lot of people want their players to be picked. There’s the question of nepotism and tribalism,” Obuh stated.
He emphasized the need for coaches to stand firm, select players based strictly on merit; without external pressure.
“We don’t have a coach that will say, ‘I am selecting my team if I fail, sack me.’ Unfortunately, most of them today play to the hands of the person who gave them the job.
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“When they fail, it becomes a problem no one will come to own up, and they will sack you.
“So let the coaches who are given this job stand their ground and take the best out of the players they feel are qualified. If they fail, sack them but allow them to do their job.”
Obuh, who enjoyed success during his time in Nigeria’s youth football setup, led the Golden Eaglets to a silver medal at the 2009 FIFA U-17 World Cup.
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