They Must Do Better — Ikpeba Slams Super Eagles Attack After Guinea-Bissau Loss

Former Nigerian international Victor Ikpeba has criticised Super Eagles forwards Ademola Lookman, Akor Adams and Taiwo Awoniyi following Nigeria’s 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Tuesday.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Ikpeba expressed his disappointment with the performance of Nigeria’s attacking players and questioned the decision not to start George Ilenikhena and Moses Usor.

Awoniyi was handed a starting role alongside Adams and Lookman, with Ilenikhena and Usor beginning the match on the bench. Awoniyi was substituted at half-time, while Usor came on at the start of the second half.

Speaking on SuperSport, Ikpeba argued that Ilenikhena and Usor should have been included in the starting lineup, while expressing concerns about the inability of some of the more established forwards to make a significant impact.

Ikpeba said the Super Eagles needed greater determination and fighting spirit, particularly when representing the country in the national colours.

The former Monaco forward also expressed disappointment with the manner in which Nigeria conceded control of the game, saying the expectations surrounding the team were high and that the nature of the defeat was particularly painful.

Guinea-Bissau took the lead through Franculino Djú in the 15th minute before Mama Baldé doubled the advantage in the second half. Álvaro Djaló then added a third goal in stoppage time to complete a convincing victory for the hosts.

The result gave Guinea-Bissau six points from two matches and kept them at the top of Group L, while Nigeria remained on three points after opening the campaign with a 2-1 comeback victory over Madagascar.

Nigeria will now look to recover from the setback as the qualifying campaign continues, with Ikpeba’s comments adding to the scrutiny surrounding the team’s attacking performance.