2024 was a year of ups and downs for Nigerian football. While there were moments of brilliance, several challenges on and off the pitch showed that there’s still much work to be done.

The Super Eagles began the year on a high note with an impressive performance at the delayed 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Ivory Coast. Coached by Jose Peseiro, the team defeated big names like South Africa, Angola, and Cameroon to reach the finals.

In the final match, they faced the hosts and took an early lead. However, the Super Eagles eventually lost 2-1, missing the chance to add a fourth AFCON title to their name.

While the NPFL enjoyed better scheduling, familiar issues persisted. Poor pitch conditions, questionable officiating, and low player welfare were key concerns. As a result, the league struggled to produce players good enough for the national team.

The Super Eagles faced mixed results in 2026 World Cup qualifiers, leaving their hopes of making it to the tournament uncertain. The Super Falcons also continued their decline in women’s football, losing their once-dominant position in Africa. Despite the emergence of Rasheedat Ajibade as a team leader, there were many questions about the team’s structure and future.

Despite the setbacks, some Nigerian players stood out globally.

• Victor Osimhen became a hot topic during the summer transfer window before securing a loan move to Galatasaray.
• Victor Boniface led Bayer Leverkusen to a Bundesliga title and played in the Europa League final.
• Ademola Lookman ended the year as the CAF Player of the Year.

These achievements highlighted the undeniable talent of Nigerian players, even when domestic football faced challenges.

Looking forward, experts believe the journey to recovery will be slow. Changes in sports governance, such as the introduction of the National Sports Commission, could help improve management and planning.

The Super Eagles need better organization and coaching to maximize their talent and boost their chances of making it to the World Cup. The Super Falcons also require a complete rebuild of their player development system to compete with rising African teams like Morocco and Cameroon.

While the NPFL faces an uphill battle in improving its quality and perception, fans hope that gradual changes will set Nigerian football on the right path.

2025 will likely be a year of rebuilding and laying the groundwork for a brighter future in Nigerian football.