‘We are no longer giants, we have become ants’ - Ex-Nigerian star slams Super Eagles team

Nigeria's World Cup qualification hopes were dealt a blow as they could only manage a 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe.

Eric Chelle's debut as the leader of the three-time AFCON Champions was a success, as he led the team to a 2-0 victory over Rwanda in Kigali. 

However, his homecoming at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium was less triumphant in front of Nigerian fans, losing two crucial points.

Ekpo has expressed his displeasure at the Super Eagles team, with their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in jeopardy.

Speaking to Brila, he said, “African football has progressed significantly. Nigeria still views some of these countries as small, but we need to step up as well. We are struggling to win matches against these teams.

“We are no longer giants; we have become ants. We cannot hold onto the ball and just pass it sideways. If we do not defeat Bafana Bafana in South Africa, our World Cup qualifying dream is over.”

The Super Eagles can redeem themselves in September when they continue their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches.

On September 3, Nigeria will face Rwanda, followed by a match against South Africa's Bafana Bafana on September 6.