He Wants To Live Nigeria’s 1994 AFCON-Winning Coach Westerhof In Critical Condition

Former Super Eagles head coach Clemens Westerhof has been diagnosed with colon cancer and is reportedly in critical condition at a hospital in Arnhem, the Netherlands, according to his wife, Lilian.

The 86-year-old Dutch tactician is receiving treatment at Rijnstate Hospital in his hometown, where he was admitted on Wednesday following health complications. His wife disclosed that the cancer diagnosis was a recent development, adding that he had previously been battling Alzheimer’s disease.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Lilian expressed deep concern over her husband’s condition, saying the family was devastated by the latest diagnosis and appealing for prayers and assistance.

“The doctor just told us he has colon cancer and we are all devastated. He is in a critical condition and emotional, talking about our two daughters. He wants to live. We need help. We need prayers,” she said.

Lilian also raised concerns about the care Westerhof was receiving at Rijnstate Hospital, expressing hope that he could be transferred to a better-equipped medical facility in Amsterdam or Germany.

“They appear to have given up. I don’t understand,” she said.

Westerhof remains one of the most influential figures in Nigerian football history, having guided the Super Eagles to several major achievements during his tenure as head coach.

Under his leadership, Nigeria qualified for its first-ever FIFA World Cup in 1994 and won the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia that same year.

The team had earlier finished as runners-up at the 1990 AFCON before securing third place at the 1992 tournament under his guidance.

Westerhof’s tenure also saw Nigeria climb to fifth in the FIFA world rankings, a landmark achievement that strengthened the country’s reputation in international football.

His contributions to Nigerian football have continued to earn him recognition among supporters, with his current health challenges prompting concern among those who remember his role in the Super Eagles’ historic successes.