Former Nigeria national football team defender Sam Sodje has voiced strong criticism of the Nigeria Football Federation over the quality of friendly matches arranged for the national team following their recent Africa Cup of Nations campaign.

Speaking in an interview with Brila.net, Sodje expressed disappointment with the federation’s decision to schedule friendly games against the Jordan national football team and the Iran national football team during the current international window.

According to the former defender, the fixtures do not reflect Nigeria’s status or ambitions as one of Africa’s leading football nations.

“I feel sorry for Nigerian fans, and I also feel sorry for myself because it shows where we are,” Sodje said.

He questioned the purpose behind organizing such matches, suggesting that the federation should aim to schedule friendlies against stronger opponents that better prepare the team for major competitions.

“What is the reason for playing Jordan? There must be a reason. Do we have an opponent or competition that a team like Jordan is playing? What is the reason?” he asked.

While Sodje acknowledged that he is not part of the federation’s decision-making process, he insisted that honest reflection is necessary for Nigerian football to progress.

“I can’t say much because I’m not the Nigerian Football Federation. It’s not about criticizing, but we have to be honest with ourselves. Do they really know what they are doing? It’s a shame and I hope one day we will get it right,” he added.

Sodje, who made five appearances for Nigeria during his international career, has frequently spoken out on issues surrounding the management and direction of football in the country.