The Super Eagles of Nigeria experienced a tough month in their World Cup qualifiers, resulting in an eight-place drop in the FIFA World rankings. Nigeria lost to Benin Republic and drew with South Africa in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, as reported by Sportblog247.com.

In May, the Nigeria Football Federation appointed Finidi George as the official coach of the Super Eagles. However, just a month later, George resigned and had a falling out with the team’s star striker, Victor Osimhen.

Despite the chaotic month for Nigerian football fans, there were some positive developments. Club Brugge’s Raphael Onyedika and Hatayspor’s Oluwafisayo Ayodele-Bashiru shone brightly when given the chance in the team.

Both midfielders were invited to the national team by Portuguese coach Jose Peseiro, who left his position in February after his contract with the Nigerian Football Federation expired. Onyedika made his debut in 2022, and Bashiru in October, each earning nine and two caps respectively.

Onyedika was part of the Nigerian squad for AFCON 2023 in Ivory Coast. Although he didn’t start in the initial games, he played 27 minutes in Nigeria’s 1-0 victory over Guinea Bissau. Nigeria’s lack of creativity from the midfield was evident throughout the tournament, with Alex Iwobi, playing out of position, receiving criticism.

In his first competitive game, Finidi George opted for a midfield trio of Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Ayodele-Bashiru. Despite many challenges, the midfield selection proved effective, with Bashiru scoring his first goal for the Super Eagles before getting injured. Onyedika replaced the injured Bashiru in the game against Benin Republic, putting in a strong performance and scoring his first goal for Nigeria.

As Nigeria seeks a shift from defensive to more attacking football, Onyedika and Bashiru will be key in linking the midfield and attack. Both 23 years old, they promise a decade of stability in the midfield, an essential factor for the team’s future success.