"Super Eagles’ Midfield Lacks Creativity" – South African Pundit Blames Iwobi, Ndidi for Nigeria’s Struggles

The Super Eagles' underwhelming 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier has sparked criticism, with South African football pundit Mbizo Mzamane pinpointing Nigeria’s midfield woes as a major factor in their disappointing results.

Mzamane, speaking on CBS Sports Golazo, argued that Alex Iwobi and Wilfred Ndidi struggled in the midfield, failing to provide the necessary creativity Nigeria needed to dominate Zimbabwe. He particularly emphasized that Iwobi played in an unnatural role, which left the team lacking the kind of playmaker that once defined Nigeria’s midfield, such as Jay-Jay Okocha or John Obi Mikel.

“They do struggle in the midfield. Alex Iwobi is playing in a makeshift role, he’s not a natural central midfielder,” Mzamane said.

“Obviously, Ndidi is quality, but he’s a more defensive player. That Jay-Jay Okocha-esque player or even an Obi Mikel has been missing for quite some time in Nigeria.”

Super Eagles’ Tactical Issues Under Chelle

Nigeria’s coach, Eric Chelle, opted for a 4-4-2 formation against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, with Ndidi playing in his natural defensive role but Iwobi forced into deeper midfield duties. This decision, according to Mzamane, left the team without a true creative spark in the middle of the park.

Additionally, Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon were deployed as wide midfielders, further limiting Nigeria’s ability to control the tempo and create chances through the middle.

A Wake-Up Call for the Super Eagles?

With just four matches left in the qualifiers, Nigeria sits fourth in Group C, behind South Africa, Benin Republic, and Lesotho. A once favorable qualifying campaign is now in serious jeopardy, and the team must find answers quickly.

The question remains: Should Chelle rethink his tactical approach? Should Nigeria reintroduce a true playmaker into the squad to unlock their attacking potential?

With the next match against Rwanda in September, the Super Eagles have time to reassess their strategy. But can they find the missing link in midfield before it’s too late?

Let’s hear your thoughts! Is Nigeria’s midfield the real problem, or is it something bigger?