'If you're giving your club 100%, give us 200%' - Arsenal icon Kanu sends message to Super Eagles players

Arsenal legend Nwankwo Kanu, has called on Super Eagles players to double their commitment to the national team as they prepare for their crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations  qualifiers against Benin and Rwanda. 

Nigeria is set to face Benin and Rwanda in November for their final two AFCON qualifier games, which will determine their progression to the 2025 AFCON tournament in Morocco.

With Nigeria currently leading Group D, the team needs just a single point from the upcoming fixtures to secure a spot in the 2025 AFCON in Morocco.

Speaking to Brila FM, Kanu emphasized that representing the national team requires an extra level of dedication and heart. 

He called on the team to push beyond their usual performance levels, emphasizing the importance of wearing the Super Eagles jersey with pride and dedication.

"They are very important. They can't be doing well in their various clubs and then come to the national team they will not do the same. No," Kanu told Brila FM.

"When you come to the national team you give more than what you give to the clubs. You can't wear that jersey and be slacking. If you're giving your club 100%, give us 200%.

The Super Eagles had a turbulent year following a strong showing at the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast, with struggles in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in June.

After a 1-1 draw against South Africa in Uyo and a 2-1 loss to Benin in Abidjan, Nigeria's World Cup prospects dimmed, leaving them fifth in Group C with three points.

This setback prompted head coach Finidi George to step down, with Austin Eguavoen stepping in as interim coach. 

Since Eguavoen's appointment, the team's performance in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers has significantly improved, and Kanu acknowledged the recent progress.

Still, the Premier League, FA Cup and Charity Shield winner with Arsenal  emphasized that it's ultimately the players' responsibility to perform at their peak.

"The players need to understand that that we may be talking about coaching all the time but they need to do more," Kanu remarked. 

"From what I've seen in recent matches, they are improving, and they're getting better."

Kanu, who made 197 appearances for Arsenal and scored 44 goals, enjoyed an illustrious playing career, winning numerous trophies, including the UEFA Champions League and an Olympic gold medal with Nigeria.

Adeyemi Adewale

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