How we attacked one another spiritually, physically at 2010 World Cup – Ex Eagles, Lukman
Quick Read
Haruna, who was one of the youngest players in the squad at the time, disclosed that the team was plagued by in-fighting, selfish play, and even spiritual battles among teammates, which ultimately led to
Former Super Eagles midfielder, Lukman Haruna, has revealed shocking details of the crisis that rocked Nigeria’s camp during the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa.
Haruna, who was one of the youngest players in the squad at the time, disclosed that the team was plagued by in-fighting, selfish play, and even spiritual battles among teammates, which ultimately led to Nigeria’s early exit from the tournament.
Speaking in a recent interview, the former AS Monaco star said the Super Eagles lacked unity and discipline both on and off the pitch.
“At the 2010 World Cup, it wasn’t just about football. There were serious issues. Some players fought physically, others spiritually. We didn’t play as a team. Everyone wanted to shine individually,” Haruna revealed.
Nigeria, coached then by Swedish tactician Lars Lagerbäck, crashed out of the group stage after failing to win any of their three matches, drawing once and losing twice.
Haruna insisted that the problems were beyond tactics, stressing that disunity and personal interests overshadowed national pride.
“We attacked each other spiritually. It was so bad that you could feel the disconnection on the pitch. That’s why we failed,” he added.
The Super Eagles’ 2010 campaign remains one of the most disappointing in Nigeria’s World Cup history, and Haruna’s revelations shed new light on the behind-the-scenes turmoil that contributed to the poor outing.
Comments