Former Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro has heaped praise on South Africa’s football system, highlighting its structure, professionalism, and investment while subtly calling attention to the shortcomings of Nigeria’s local league, the NPFL.
The Portuguese tactician, now head coach of Egyptian giants Zamalek SC, visited South Africa with his team for the first leg of the CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final against Stellenbosch FC.
Though the match ended in a goalless draw, Peseiro came away deeply impressed by the level of organization and infrastructure in place.
“When I arrived at the stadium, I said it immediately this is serious football,” Peseiro said in quotes published by Goal.
“Sundowns and Orlando [Pirates] won yesterday. I was worried. You can see it good stadium, good organization, good salaries, good players, good coaches.”
Former Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro was never a fan of the NPFL during his time. Photo Credit: X
The former FC Porto boss didn’t mention Nigeria directly, but the contrast with his previous role as Super Eagles manager was clear.
His praise of South African football served as an indirect jab at the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), which has long struggled with poor facilities, inconsistent management, and player welfare issues.
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Peseiro also hailed the progress of the South African national team, saying they are now among the top five sides on the continent.
“I know that because I coached against them in February 2023,” he noted, referring to their AFCON semi-final clash.
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His comments come amid ongoing debates over the NPFL’s inability to produce players for the national team. During that AFCON clash, South Africa started with just one foreign-based player, while Nigeria’s XI featured none from the domestic league a stark reminder of the NPFL’s diminishing influence.
Nigeria and South Africa set to meet again in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers this September, Peseiro’s words may continue to echo in conversations about the need for reform in Nigerian football.
