“Nigeria must take a cue from FIFA Club World Cup and reshape its football” – Musa

Veteran Nigeria international Ahmed Musa has urged the Nigeria Professional Football League [NPFL] to take a cue from the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup to restructure the domestic game.

Musa, whose playing experience included playing in Russia for CSK Moscow and in England for Leicester City, says Nigerian football must improve under the NPFL.

“I have been following the FIFA Club World Cup and my focus has been on the African clubs in the tournament,” Musa wrote. “Apart from the excitement, the tournament is a money-spinner for the African clubs.”

“Can we compete at this level? What are we not getting right? It’s a sobering assessment that challenges stakeholders to rethink the structure and financing of Nigerian football.”

“The NPFL is not lacking in potential. Our football has got an abundance of talent and potential from the grassroots to the elite level, but these factors aren’t enough in a modern football system.”

“Other African countries are producing referees for CAF and FIFA tournaments, but what do we have here? It’s a critique that underscores the need for better training and development, not just for players but for officials and administrators.”

“We must work hard to ensure our football meets the global standard and organisation.”

Africa’s representatives at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup are Morocco giants Wydad Athletic Club, Al Ahly of Egypt, Esperance of Tunisia and South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns with Sundowns and Esperance being the continent’s brightest spots so far.

Sundowns secured Africa’s first three points after beating Korean side Ulsan Hyundai by 1-0 in their opening game before losing painfully by 4-3 to Bundesliga club, Borussia Dortmund.

Esperance followed in the footsteps of Sundowns with a 1-0 win over Los Angeles FC in their second game. Wydad are yet to record any victory with Al Ahly pulling a draw against Inter Miami in their first match.