Garba Lawal Reflects on Super Eagles Career, AFCON 2025, and Lessons from Dutch Football

Former Super Eagles star and 1996 Olympic gold medallist, Garba Lawal, has shared insights on his illustrious playing career, experiences abroad, and Nigeria’s prospects at AFCON 2025 in an exclusive interview.

Lawal, who featured in four editions of the Africa Cup of Nations (2000–2006), winning a bronze and three silver medals, revealed that the 2000 tournament, co-hosted by Nigeria and Ghana, was one he believed the Super Eagles could have won. “We were really close in the final,” he recalled. Despite setbacks, he praised the team’s resilience and consistency over his 11-year national team tenure.

Looking at the current AFCON campaign, Lawal stressed the importance of mental toughness. “At this stage, there is no room for individual mistakes. Players need to become psychologists for themselves and remain focused, because other teams also have their chances,” he said, praising the team’s organization, mentality, and attitude.

Reflecting on his 1996 Olympic triumph, Lawal compared it to competing at the World Cup. “It was special. We were the first African country to win before Cameroon did in 2000. We faced world-class opponents, but belief and a bit of luck saw us through,” he said.

Known for his versatility, Lawal recounted playing in multiple positions, from left-back to defensive midfield, but his preferred roles were No. 10 and No. 8, where he enjoyed controlling the game. Discipline and self-improvement, he noted, were key to his success, both on and off the pitch.

On club football, Lawal highlighted his seven-year stint at Dutch side Roda, where he developed tactically and achieved two FA Cups. “Holland was the home of learning football,” he said, emphasizing adaptability and the universal language of the sport.

Transitioning into coaching and administration, Lawal emphasized patience, data driven decision-making, and the importance of nurturing young talent. “Being remembered for my contributions excites me and motivates me to achieve more in my current role,” he concluded.