Former Super Eagles winger, Garba Lawal has urged handlers of the national team to use their upcoming international friendlies as a platform for long-term rebuilding.
The Super Eagles are scheduled to face the India national football team and Portugal national football team in a series of preparatory matches, which Lawal believes should form the foundation of a new-look squad.
Speaking on the team’s current direction, Lawal backed head coach Eric Chelle for introducing fresh talent, noting that the focus has shifted toward future competitions following Nigeria’s absence from the next FIFA World Cup.
“It is encouraging to see new faces in the squad,” Lawal said. “The team is not preparing for the World Cup, but rather building toward the 2027 AFCON, and this is the right time to start.”
He also defended the quality of recent friendlies against less-heralded opponents, stressing that there are no easy fixtures in modern football.
“Those matches are important. You cannot underestimate any opponent anymore because many nations are improving rapidly,” he added. “With several friendlies lined up, it presents a valuable opportunity to strengthen the team.”
Lawal further emphasised the need for a generational transition within the squad, calling on the coaching crew to prioritise younger players.
“This is the right moment for the coach to build. With more time available, he can assess and integrate players who can improve the team in the long term,” he said. “If you want to build a strong side, you have to start bringing in younger players in their early twenties.”
