Victor Agali, a former Super Eagles striker, has made shocking revelations about his controversial exit from the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia.
Agali, who was sent home alongside teammates Celestine Babayaro and Yakubu Aiyegeni, claims that the allegations of disciplinary breaches that led to their departure were entirely false.
In an exclusive interview, Agali recounted the events that led to their expulsion from the team’s camp. “We didn’t take any women to our hotels, we were only having a few drinks at the bar,” he said. “I remember years later, Taiwo Ogunjobi of blessed memory called me to apologize for what happened.”
Agali alleged that NFF officials lied about the incident and used the press to spread false narratives, damaging their reputations. “They didn’t care how it affected the players, as long as it was in line with their agenda,” he said.
The incident occurred during the Super Eagles’ preparation for their second match against South Africa, and the decision to send the players home was announced by then NFF secretary Taiwo Ogunjobi. The players were accused of breaching team rules by bringing women into their hotel rooms and being out late.
Agali’s account raises questions about the truth of the incident and the motives of the NFF officials involved. The former striker’s allegations highlight the importance of fair and transparent communication in team management, to avoid damaging players’ reputations and to build trust within the team.
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