Super Eagles interim coach Augustine Eguavoen has identified the key issue behind Nigeria’s struggles to meet expectations on the international stage.

Despite boasting one of the most talented squads in Africa, filled with stars excelling at top European clubs, the Super Eagles have been unable to translate individual brilliance into cohesive team performances.

This concern has been magnified following their recent 2-1 loss at home to Rwanda in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers, a result that has drawn widespread criticism.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Eguavoen pointed out the team’s lack of a creative midfielder as a major factor in their inability to convert chances into goals.

“Goals win games,” Eguavoen said. “They score goals with their clubs and even in training, but when it comes to matches, they don’t score. I keep asking why.”

The coach stressed the importance of having a playmaker to unlock defenses and provide decisive passes.

“There are players who can put the ball into space for the strikers,” he explained. “We are still looking for a player who has flair, creativity and a good playmaker who can put the ball in the space for them (forwards).”

As the team grapples with this issue, the pressure is mounting ahead of next year’s World Cup qualifiers. Nigeria finds itself in a precarious situation, needing to win all their remaining games to keep their qualification hopes alive.