Some Nigerian fans have taken to social media to blast the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) for openly criticizing Super Eagles striker Cyriel Dessers following Nigeria's disappointing draw against South Africa.

Eric Chelle's side were held to a 1-1 draw against Bafana Bafana at the Free State Toyota Stadium in Bloemfontein, denting Nigeria's hopes of securing a World Cup ticket.

In a post-match statement made available to journalists, the NFF singled out Dessers—who was subbed off at halftime for blame.

The statement partly reads: “Cyriel Dessers, who had an unimpressive game in Uyo where he turned out to be a substitute that was substituted, did not have a better game as he was too slow to latch onto passes, could not win aerial balls, and did little in bringing alive the Nigerian attack.”

The statement has been met with widespread criticism from a section of Nigerian football fans on social media, accusing the NFF of throwing the former Rangers striker under the bus.

Check out some reactions from fans below:

@agbai_onwuka: "What sort of NFF is this? Cyriel Dessers did nothing wrong. What sort of embarrassment is this?"

@aush_oroko: "I am so embarrassed on his behalf!"

@fruityruthie_n: "Please, who has Cyriel's number? I will tell him never to play for Nigeria again."

@iamcalisports: "This is so bad from the NFF."

@timiakindelephotography: "This is why some players would rather pitch their nationality somewhere else."

@Etz_Fatcat: "Very embarrassing… the coach should be the one telling him that, not the NFF."

WDN