February 13, 2023, NewsOrient
Opinion/Column
By Kalu Onuma

In the aftermath of Nigeria’s defeat to Ivory Coast, the nation finds itself in a state of disappointment and frustration. With blames being apportioned and fingers being pointed, it is clear that this loss has shaken the collective confidence of Nigerians worldwide.

The match was undeniably one-sided, with Ivory Coast clearly outplaying the Nigerian team. The players did their best, but they were outmatched and outwitted on the field.

It is perhaps in their overconfidence that they stumbled. After defeating Ivory Coast just a week ago, they assumed history would repeat itself. However, the reality check was a hard-hitting reminder that luck has its limits.

As the dust settles, Nigerians are left pondering on what went wrong. How could a team with such a talented attacking lineup fail to impose themselves on the game? The blame lies, in part, with the way the team was set up. Mistakes were made, and lessons must be learned for the future.

However, amidst the criticisms and complaints, it is crucial to distinguish between valid concerns and mere delusions. The focus should be on self-improvement rather than seeking compensation in scapegoating or delusional reasoning.

Questions have been raised about why Didier Drogba, the Ivorian legend, brought out the cup, or why AFCON made certain decisions. Some even ask about the strange object tied to the Ivorian goalkeeper. These inquiries may provide momentary distractions, but they are ultimately besides the point.

It is important to remember that in sports, winning is what matters. When you win, you are the champion. When you lose, blaming external factors or seeking excuses will not change the outcome. Instead, it is a time for introspection and finding ways to improve.

Nigerians are known for their resilience and determination, traits that have propelled them to success in various fields. They cannot allow this loss to dent their spirits. Instead, they must draw inspiration from it and use it as a catalyst for growth.

The morning after the defeat to Ivory Coast, it is natural for emotions to run high. Complaints, criticisms, and blame games are par for the course. However, it is essential to channel these emotions into constructive dialogue and a genuine desire for improvement.

Nigeria has a rich footballing history and a talented pool of players. This loss should serve as a wake-up call, reminding them that success cannot be taken for granted. It is a call to examine their mistakes, evaluate their strategies, and come back stronger than ever.

Ultimately, the morning after the loss and thereafter should be a moment of reflection and self-assessment. It is a time for Nigeria to reassess their passion for the game and match it with the necessary planning and execution, support their team beyond words and periodic enthusiasm, and work towards a brighter future for our Teams and Nation by investing a bit more than the usual towards the end we all often pray and desire.

With newfound determination and a commitment to growth, Nigeria should be able to rise higher than the present, stronger and more resilient than our current disappointments.

©️ AI-KO
February 2024
Lagos

Photo Credit: Njenje Media News

~ NewsOrient