Retired Nigerian midfielder Lukman Haruna has candidly disclosed the serious internal conflicts that undermined the Super Eagles’ 2010 FIFA World Cup campaign in South Africa. Once hailed as a beacon of Nigeria’s football future after the 2007 U17 World Cup triumph, Haruna lifted the veil on the spiritual and physical clashes that fractured the team.
Speaking on The Abu Azeez Podcast, Haruna said, “A lot happened the team was not in good spirits. At that time, we actually fought each other. Spiritually, we were attacking one another, and physically, we were fighting.”
He recounted an incident at a London airport before departure where several players engaged in heated arguments, revealing a fractious atmosphere. “Some players were selfish; they didn’t want to pass the ball. They just wanted to take the glory alone,” Haruna added.
Despite a squad packed with notable stars such as Vincent Enyeama, Nwankwo Kanu, and Obafemi Martins, Nigeria’s hopes were dashed as they exited at the group stage with one draw and two losses. Haruna reflected on the missed opportunity: “We could have advanced to the second round, but we drew that game and were knocked out.”
The Super Eagles’ 2010 campaign ended following defeats to Argentina and Greece and a crucial draw with South Korea.
