Former Rangers and Doma United goalkeeper Kingdom Osayi says Nigerian clubs are “not ready” to compete in CAF competitions, blaming structural failings rather than players for the country’s repeated poor performances on the continent.
Osayi, who now plays for Swedish side Assyriska Södertälje, was reacting to Rivers United’s dramatic late collapse against RS Berkane on Friday night.
“We’re not ready to compete”
Speaking on WhatsApp platform NPFL News, the 21-year-old was blunt in his assessment of why NPFL teams continue to struggle.
“We’re not ready to compete on continental football,” Osayi said.
“The problem is not the players. My reason is because we don’t have a structure.”
He questioned the league’s long-term planning and consistency.
“Can you show me a template for the league? Every year our aim is to win trophies, but we end up not getting past knockout stages. We always calculate to qualify.”
Photo Credit: Osayi/X
Osayi also criticised the pressure placed on coaches, arguing that many are denied the freedom to build competitive teams.
“The coaches face challenges of pressure, and yet you don’t allow them to do their jobs.”
He pointed to constant squad turnover a recurring issue in the NPFL.
“We sign 25 players every season.”
The goalkeeper highlighted the lack of CAF-approved stadiums as another major obstacle. “No team has a pitch that can host CAF games apart from Remo Stars and Akwa United that made an upgrade.”
Photo Credit: Caroline Khamo
He questioned how Nigerian clubs expect to compete with sides boasting far superior wages and training facilities.
“You won go beat team wey dey pay players minimum of 2.5 million per month with good training facilities?”
Osayi Kingdom in action in Sweden. Photo Credit: Caroline Khamo
“Every season you say we don’t have good players in the league, yet those players move abroad to make more money, and people are still saying there’s no players.”
A unique NPFL record and journey to Europe
Osayi, who made only three appearances for Rangers before moving to Sweden, has already carved out a notable reputation.
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In 2023, during his time with Doma United, he became the first goalkeeper in NPFL history to record two assists and a clean sheet in a single match, a 3–0 away win over Gombe United in their first Savannah Derby at Pantami Stadium.
Photo Credit: X
Since moving to Europe, he has made 16 Ettan Norra appearances, keeping six clean sheets, and featured twice in the Svenska Cupen.
Rivers United collapse reignites debate
Friday’s defeat has reopened conversations about Nigeria’s struggles in Africa. Rivers United led until the 90th minute before conceding twice in added time to lose 2–1 to RS Berkane in Uyo.
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Osayi says such results will continue unless the NPFL transforms its structure, planning and investment.
