Former Super Eagles captain, Joseph Yobo has raised questions about the absence of leadership in the team following their 1-1 draw against Lesotho in the first game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Speaking on Brila FM’s breakfast show, ‘No Holds Barred With Ifeanyi Udeze’, Yobo expressed concerns about the experienced leaders within the team not actively involved especially during challenging moments.

The former CB emphasized the importance of having leaders within the team, stating that their absence can impact the overall performance, and the team may struggle when facing difficulties on the field.

“The coach would take a larger portion of the game as he invited them and decided who to play with. The coach will take responsibility, the senior men in the team have to take responsibility as well.”

“I won’t put too much blame on the younger ones because they are used to different systems of football abroad and so the coaches will need to set up a system for them to thrive in and things may be a little strange to them because playing in Europe and being in a good run of form is different to coming to the national team where the system of football is different.”

Joseph Yobo particularly questioned why PAOK defender, Troost Ekong, who is among the leaders in the dressing room was absent from the list of invited players despite having a good time with his club.

He explained that Ekong and Kenneth Omeruo command respect in the dressing room and are influential figures.