Factors Influencing the Performance of Nigeria Premier Football League Clubs in CAF Continental Competitions (2010–2026)

Abstract

Football clubs from the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) consistently participate in continental competitions organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), including the CAF Champions League and the CAF Confederation Cup. However, Nigerian clubs have experienced inconsistent performance in these competitions over the years. This study examined the financial, technical, and tactical factors influencing the performance of Nigerian football clubs in CAF continental competitions. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. Using purposive sampling, 1,300 stakeholders comprising players, coaches, administrators, and supporters from NPFL clubs were selected, with 1,050 valid responses obtained. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, while regression analysis at the 0.05 level of significance was used to test the hypotheses. The findings revealed that financial factors significantly influence club performance, with a grand mean of 4.07 exceeding the criterion mean of 3.00. Regression analysis confirmed that financial constraints significantly affect CAF performance (R² = 0.108, F = 11.2, p = 0.001). Technical and tactical factors also significantly influence performance, with a grand mean of 4.10 exceeding the criterion mean of 3.50. Regression results further indicated a significant effect (R² = 0.203, F = 266.0, p < 0.001). The study concludes that improved financial management and effective technical–tactical strategies are essential for enhancing the competitiveness of Nigerian football clubs in CAF competitions. It recommends stronger financial governance and improved technical development programmes within NPFL clubs.

Keywords

• Financial constraints
• Technical factors
• CAF competitions
• performance
• Nigeria Professional Football League.

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