Exclusive: Super Eagles Away Struggles Major Worry Despite AFCON Qualification - Says Onazi

Nigerian midfielder Ogenyi Onazi has praised the Super Eagles for securing early qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) but admitted the team’s persistent poor away performances need urgent attention.

The Super Eagles confirmed their spot in Morocco 2025 even before their final qualifier against Benin Republic, thanks to Libya’s unexpected victory over Rwanda at Kigali’s Amahoro Stadium.

While the early qualification is a relief, memories of the disastrous 2022 World Cup qualifying and 2022 AFCON campaign still linger.

Lingering Concerns Over Away Form

The team’s inability to record away wins remains a critical concern for the fans back home.

Over the past 18 months, they have failed to register a victory in away fixtures during both FIFA World Cup and AFCON qualifiers, despite facing relatively modest opponents like Zimbabwe, Rwanda, and Benin Republic twice.

Their last away win—a 3-2 triumph over Sierra Leone—dates back to June 2023. Following a Thursday's draw against Benin Republic, the Super Eagles have picked just three points from a possible twelve in their away games, with only one clean sheet in four matches.

In an exclusive interview with SportsBoom.co.za, Onazi reflected on the team’s away struggles, stressing the need for improvement if they are make it to the World Cup.

“Football is unpredictable, and outcomes don’t always go as planned. There are highs and lows, and sometimes the lows are beyond anyone’s control. No player steps on the pitch aiming to lose, nor can they choose when they’ll have their best or worst performances," Onazi said.

“Some games, especially in World Cup qualifiers, may look easier on paper, but unfortunately, the team underperformed in some of these matches, particularly away from home. 
 

Causes of Poor Away Form

The former Lazio midfielder pointed to several factors contributing to the Super Eagles' struggles on the road.

“One key issue is the lack of stability in the coaching department. Appointing a coach just weeks before crucial qualifiers is far from ideal. Continuity and stability in the technical team are essential, and frequent changes only disrupt progress,” Onazi explained.

“International football is also fundamentally different from club football. In clubs, players have ample time for preseason training and building chemistry, but national teams have very tight schedules.

"For example, before the game against Benin Republic, the team had just one training session together, which is simply insufficient.”

The former SS Lazio midfielder also highlighted the challenges of integrating new players into the squad. “With limited time to adapt, it’s hard to establish the understanding and cohesion necessary for strong performances,” he added.