Former Super Eagles manager and midfield great Sunday Oliseh has responded to widespread criticism of his television commentary during Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 opening win over Tanzania, insisting his remarks were made in good faith and not out of dislike for the team.
Oliseh’s analysis during the broadcast drew strong reactions online, with many fans accusing him of being overly critical of the Super Eagles and star striker Victor Osimhen, despite Nigeria sealing a 2–1 victory thanks to Ademola Lookman’s match winning performance.
Addressing the backlash, Oliseh released a statement on X where he firmly rejected the claims and clarified his position, writing:
“Official Statement
I am deeply saddened by the recent suggestions on social media that my analysis of the Super Eagles’ performance against Tanzania stems from a lack of support for the team.
For nearly 40 years, I have dedicated my life and career to the progress of Nigerian football. While my professional duty requires impartiality and objective critique, my heart remains firmly with the players and Coach Eric Chelle. Constructive honesty is not a sign of dislike; it is a tool for improvement born out of a desire to see our nation succeed”.
Nigeria kicked off their AFCON 2025 campaign with a hard-fought 2–1 win over Tanzania, but while Ademola Lookman’s brilliance stole the headlines on the pitch, Sunday Oliseh’s commentary stole the spotlight online for very different reasons.
Fans took to social media in droves, accusing the former Super Eagles captain of showing clear bias against Victor Osimhen and other moments of the team throughout the broadcast.
Just recently, I was accused of being “too supportive” of the coaching staff. To now be accused of the opposite suggests a misunderstanding of my role as an analyst. My loyalty to the Green and White is unwavering and requires no defense.
Let us move past these distractions and unite in our support for the players.
God bless Nigeria.”
Oliseh emphasized that his long service to Nigerian football speaks for itself and that constructive criticism should be seen as support rather than opposition.
Nigeria return to AFCON action later this weekend as focus shifts back to the pitch and the team’s quest for continental glory.
