Nigerian prophet and spiritual leader, Primate Elijah Ayodele, has issued a stern warning to the Super Eagles ahead of their crucial World Cup qualifying clash against Rwanda. Speaking in Lagos on Thursday from 03:20, Ayodele emphasized that tomorrow’s match is a defining moment for Nigeria’s football dreams, urging the national team to show seriousness and determination or forget about progressing to the global stage.
“If Nigeria fails to win Rwanda tomorrow, let them go and sleep,” Ayodele declared. “They should not go to the World Cup. They should not waste money. Because the players must be very, very serious. These are the advice that God will tell the prophet. Go and tell them this.”
The outspoken cleric, known for his prophecies and social commentary, stressed that Nigeria’s attacking players must demonstrate hunger and commitment in front of goal. He pointed out that the strike force has often lacked sharpness in recent outings, a weakness that could prove costly if not urgently addressed.
“Our strikers must be hunting for goals so that we can go to the World Cup,” he continued. “But if you fail to win Rwanda, don’t go and play. Don’t go to South Africa. Don’t go anywhere.”
Nigeria, a football powerhouse on the African continent, has faced mounting pressure to perform consistently in the World Cup qualifiers. The Super Eagles, who have appeared in six of the last eight World Cup tournaments, are once again under the microscope as fans and stakeholders demand improved performances.
Tomorrow’s fixture against Rwanda is viewed as a must-win encounter, not only to boost Nigeria’s points tally in the qualification group but also to restore confidence among supporters. Analysts believe the team cannot afford to underestimate Rwanda, who have proven resilient in past encounters despite their underdog status.
Ayodele’s comments reflect a growing sense of impatience among Nigerian fans, who have endured years of fluctuating results and managerial changes. His statement, laced with urgency, underscores the high stakes involved. For many Nigerians, football is more than just a sport — it is a unifying passion and a symbol of national pride.
Some critics, however, have cautioned against placing undue spiritual weight on the outcome of matches, arguing that discipline, tactical preparation, and player commitment remain the decisive factors. Yet, Ayodele’s pronouncements continue to spark discussions, with many acknowledging his influence in shaping public discourse around sports and politics.
As the countdown to kickoff draws closer, the Super Eagles’ coaching staff faces the task of motivating the squad and addressing tactical weaknesses. Expectations are particularly high for Nigeria’s frontline, where established stars are expected to deliver goals that will secure the much-needed victory.
For now, one thing is clear: anything short of three points against Rwanda will not only dim Nigeria’s World Cup hopes but also validate Ayodele’s sobering warning. The players will have to decide whether to rise to the occasion or face the disappointment of missing out on football’s biggest stage.
