Now that one of the relatively low-profile defenders, Abdullahi Bewene, has delivered a performance worthy of recognition, are you willing to admit that your criticism of the coach’s selections may have been premature?
This was a friendly match, and the primary purpose of such games is to allow coaches to assess new players and give fringe players an opportunity to prove themselves. Judging selections before these players have had the chance to be evaluated defeats that purpose.
While many of us would like to see more NPFL players included in the national team, that should not be used as a basis for dismissing players competing in lower divisions across Europe. Those leagues, despite being considered “lower-tier” in Europe, generally offer better infrastructure, player development systems, competitive standards, and exposure than the Nigerian league currently does.
Rather than demanding inclusion based solely on domestic affiliation, the focus should be on improving the quality, organization, and competitiveness of our local league so that its players can earn opportunities on merit and compete effectively for national team places.