Osimhen is a national asset - Olopade fires back at Sunday Oliseh

Director General of Nigeria’s National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade has addressed comments by former Super Eagles captain and coach Sunday Oliseh, who described celebrating a third-place finish as “mediocrity” and criticised Victor Osimhen’s conduct during the semi-final loss to Morocco.

Oliseh claimed that after the Mozambique incident, the team lost its ‘bite’ and Lookman became a ‘shadow of himself.’ The statistics and the eye test suggest otherwise.

“I disagree with Oliseh on many of his comments, including his indictment of Osimhen. Our legends deserve respect, but they must act as mentors, not denigrate the younger generation,” he said via Footy Africa.

Defending Nigeria’s star striker, Olopade emphasised Osimhen’s importance both on and off the pitch.

He continued, “Osimhen is the second biggest brand in Nigeria after the Super Eagles. If we are branding Nigeria: Super Eagles are number one, Osimhen is number two, and the Super Falcons are number three.”

He urged Oliseh to show empathy, drawing parallels with the former midfielder’s own turbulent career.

“Oliseh is a hero, his legacy is secure. But he must allow these youngsters to make mistakes and learn, just as he did,” he added.