Former Nigeria international Garba Lawal has called for the upcoming friendly matches to be used as a foundation for rebuilding the national team.
Lawal also defended previous friendlies against Iran and Jordan, insisting that no opponent should be underestimated in modern football.
“The coach (Eric Chelle) decided to bring new faces in the team which is good. We aren’t going to the World Cup, we are just preparing for the 2027 AFCON,” Lawal stated.
“It’s good we are already preparing for next year’s AFCON, those friendlies are quality matches, you can’t underestimate them.
“They are also coming up in football, there is no easy matches I believe those are four friendlies plus another two again so I think it’s a good one.”
Lawal stressed that head coach Eric Chelle must take advantage of the current period to introduce younger players into the squad.
“As a coach (Eric Chelle) you start building now, since we aren’t going to the World Cup because you say you don’t have the time now you have time to call the new faces you think can improve the team.
“Some of this players are 28,29,30. Some of this players are 28,29 and 30 so if you want to build a team it’s now you should start bringing young players who are 21 and 22.”
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Lawal’s position reflects the growing sentiment among fans and stakeholders that the team must begin a gradual transition.
Such a strategy, many believe, will help build cohesion ahead of the 2027 AFCON and ensure the squad is prepared for the 2030 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
