Disunity ruined Nigeria’s 2010 World Cup campaign, says Lukman Haruna

Former Nigeria international, Lukman Haruna, has given a startling account of the Super Eagles’ troubled campaign at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, revealing that the players fought both physically and spiritually before and during the tournament.

Haruna, who then played for French Ligue 1 side AS Monaco, was part of coach Lars Lagerbäck’s squad to the Mundial.

Nigeria, however, endured a disappointing outing, crashing out in the group stage after securing only one point from three matches against Argentina, Greece, and South Korea.

Speaking on The Abu Azeez Podcast, the former midfielder explained that disunity, indiscipline, and selfishness were at the heart of the team’s collapse. According to him, the Eagles went into the competition already in turmoil.

“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,” Haruna said.

He recalled that before the squad even departed its London camp for South Africa, some players engaged in a fight, though he chose not to disclose their names.

Haruna further revealed that selfish play on the field compounded Nigeria’s problems, as some players were unwilling to pass the ball, preferring instead to seek individual glory.

“Some players were selfish; they didn’t want to pass the ball. They just wanted to take the glory alone,” he added.

Nigeria eventually finished bottom of Group B, drawing only against South Korea, while losing to Argentina and Greece. The team’s poor showing drew widespread criticism at home and abroad, with many pointing to lack of cohesion and preparation.