Several coaches participating in the ongoing 2024/2025 Nigeria National League Super 8 Play-off have reportedly intensified their criticism of match officials due to their teams’ shortcomings in the tournament, which reached matchday two yesterday.
Yobe Desert Stars managed to come from behind to equalize against Doma United in Monday’s opening match at Stephen Keshi Stadium, a result that propelled them to the top of the Northern Conference group standings with four points from two matches.
However, instead of addressing the poor finishing and lack of composure displayed by his forwards in front of goal for their loss, Coach Akinade Onigbinde opted to blame the match official for his team’s 2-1 defeat.
“In the second half, we came out to play. But our eventual defeat is due to officiating; let’s be honest with ourselves,” Coach Onigbinde stated. “The first Assistant Referee, under pressure from the Yobe Desert Stars bench, who were exerting significant pressure on them, succumbed to it.
“It occurred three times, including the incident that resulted in the free kick leading to their second goal. It’s very disappointing,” a furious Onigbinde expressed.
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In a similar vein, Abdul Maikaba, Head Coach, also pointed fingers at the center referee following his team, Wikki Tourists, scoreless draw against Barau FC in the second match of the day.
“I’m dissatisfied with the officiating. They (referees) have shown bias, and I’m extremely unhappy,” Maikaba exclaimed.
Maikaba’s comments were not a fair assessment as he attempted to mask his team’s inefficiency in front of goal. Time and again, they squandered opportunities, even with the goalkeeper out of position.
