Former Super Eagles head coach Bonfrere Jo has called on Nigeria’s national team players to provide stronger defensive support for goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifying matches.
Speaking to Complete Sports, the Dutch tactician emphasized that defensive discipline must be a collective responsibility rather than the burden of the backline alone.
“It’s important for the defense to effectively protect the goalkeeper,” Bonfrere said. “This is not only the responsibility of the defenders but of every player — defenders, midfielders, and attackers. They must all track back quickly to help defend, just as defenders join in attacking moves.”
Bonfrere, who famously led Nigeria to Olympic gold at Atlanta 1996, stressed that the team’s organization must begin on the training ground.
“This must start from training. The coach needs to give clear instructions to the players on what to do, and they must practice them,” he added.
The veteran coach warned that exposing the goalkeeper to excessive pressure could lead to costly errors, urging the team to stay compact and disciplined during play.
“When you expose the goalkeeper too much and he faces too much pressure, he’s bound to make mistakes — and that could be costly for the team,” he said.
