Former Nigeria national football team coach Clemens Westerhof is in critical condition after being diagnosed with colon cancer in the Netherlands.
According to Vanguard, his wife, Lilian, confirmed the development on Friday night to the newspaper’s Saturday Editor, Onochie Anibeze. The 86-year-old is receiving treatment at Rijnstate Hospital in Arnhem, his hometown.
Lilian said Westerhof was admitted to the hospital on Wednesday, with the cancer diagnosis adding to his existing health difficulties.
Wife Appeals for Prayers and Medical Assistance
Westerhof’s wife said the family was devastated by the diagnosis and appealed for prayers and assistance as his condition remained critical.
“The doctor just told us he has colon cancer and we are all devastated. He is in a critical condition and emotional, talking about our two daughters. He wants to live. We need help. We need prayers,” she said.
Lilian also raised concerns about the care her husband was receiving at the hospital. She said she hoped to arrange his transfer to a medical facility with better resources in Amsterdam or Germany.
“They appear to have given up. I don’t understand,” she said.
Former Coach Was Previously Battling Alzheimer’s Disease
The colon cancer diagnosis comes as Westerhof continues to face health challenges. His wife confirmed that he had previously been battling Alzheimer’s disease.
The Dutchman turned 86 in May and is currently undergoing treatment in Arnhem.
Westerhof Remembered for Nigeria’s 1994 Football Triumphs
Westerhof remains a significant figure in Nigerian football history for his achievements as head coach of the Super Eagles.
He guided Nigeria to qualify for its first FIFA World Cup in 1994 and led the national team to victory at the Africa Cup of Nations in Tunisia that same year.
During his tenure, Nigeria also finished runners-up at the 1990 AFCON before securing third place in the 1992 tournament.
Under his leadership, the Super Eagles climbed to fifth in the FIFA world rankings, marking a notable milestone for Nigerian football and the wider African game.
