Former Super Eagles striker Obafemi Martins has voiced his concerns over the current state of the Nigerian national football team, emphasizing that a lack of unity and teamwork is holding the squad back from achieving its true potential. Despite the presence of some of Africa’s top football talents in the team, Martins believes that individual brilliance alone cannot guarantee success.

Speaking on the Football Fanstribe show, the retired forward, who scored 18 goals in 40 appearances for the Super Eagles, drew attention to what he sees as a fundamental issue plaguing the current team. “At that time, we had a team, but now the team is not actually there,” Martins explained. “The names are there, but the team isn’t there.”

Martins, now 40, enjoyed an illustrious club career across Europe and Asia, playing for clubs like Inter Milan, Newcastle United, and Seattle Sounders, among others. Known for his pace, power, and sharp finishing, he was part of a Super Eagles generation that, although not always perfect, displayed cohesion and passion on the field.

The former striker was candid when asked to compare his era with today’s crop of players. He acknowledged the raw talent in the team, mentioning stars like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, who have made headlines for their exploits in European club football and recently won back-to-back CAF African Player of the Year awards. However, he lamented the absence of a collective spirit.

“Osimhen as a striker is doing his, Ademola Lookman is doing his, but we need collective team effort,” Martins said. “We need to play together. Osimhen can score 100 goals, and if we don’t go anywhere, it’s like the goals are nothing.”

His comments come at a time when the Super Eagles are struggling in their bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A recent string of disappointing results, including a stunning defeat to the Benin Republic, has left Nigeria in a perilous position. The team currently sits fourth in Group C of the qualifiers, with just seven points from five matches—six points behind group leaders South Africa.

With only four games remaining, the Super Eagles have a steep hill to climb if they are to avoid missing out on back-to-back World Cup tournaments, a scenario that would be considered a national footballing disaster.

Martins’ call for teamwork, unity, and a shared sense of purpose highlights a broader issue that has plagued the Super Eagles in recent years. While Nigeria continues to produce world-class talents playing in top European leagues, converting that individual brilliance into a cohesive, successful national team has proven elusive.

As fans and stakeholders call for urgent reforms and a return to basics, Martins’ message is clear: big names and solo performances mean little if the team does not function as a single, focused unit. For the Super Eagles to reclaim their former glory and secure a place at the next World Cup, togetherness, discipline, and teamwork must be the foundation going forward.