Super Eagles captain, Ahmed Musa, has shed light on the team’s struggle with handling pressure, attributing their on-field panic to an inability to cope with excessive stress.
Musa made these remarks during a press event in Lagos, where the team unveiled their ambitious ‘Let’s Do It Again’ mantra as they strive to clinch a fourth Africa Cup of Nations trophy in Ivory Coast next year.
The captain’s comments come on the heels of Nigeria’s lackluster performance in the World Cup qualifier, resulting in a disappointing 1-1 draw with Lesotho on Thursday.
Addressing the media, Musa appealed for leniency towards the Super Eagles players, emphasising their vulnerability to pressure. He implored, “Please, I am begging the media to take it easy with these young boys; they can’t withstand excessive pressure.”
He further explained, “Whenever they step onto the pitch, panic sets in as they are preoccupied with concerns about the reactions awaiting them on social media platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.”
Nigeria is poised to confront Zimbabwe in a crucial World Cup qualifier on Sunday afternoon.