Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle believes that Nigeria can still secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite a challenging start in the qualifiers. Before his appointment, the Super Eagles failed to win any of their first four qualifying matches, leaving fans worried about their chances.
Chelle, who recently took over the coaching role, is optimistic following a 2-0 victory against Amavubi (Rwanda) in Kigali. However, a subsequent draw against Zimbabwe has complicated Nigeria’s path, leaving them six points behind group leaders South Africa, who are aiming to qualify for their first World Cup since 2010.
With four matches remaining, the Super Eagles must win all their upcoming games and hope South Africa loses points. Chelle has identified the upcoming match against South Africa as crucial for Nigeria’s qualification for World Cup 2026.
Read Also: Sports and Economy Intersect: Ekiti Finance Commissioner Honored with Nigeria Sports Achievers Award.
“It’s an obligation to win in South Africa, but first, we need to focus on our game against Rwanda at home,” Chelle said. He emphasized the importance of this match, which will take place at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on September 3. After that, the team will travel to face South Africa on September 7.
To prepare for their critical matches, the Nigeria Football Federation has scheduled several friendly games, including a matchup against FIFA-banned Russia in June. Reports also suggest that the Super Eagles will participate in a four-team tournament called “The Unity Cup” in June, featuring West African rivals Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, and Jamaica.
While these matches are not yet confirmed, fans are hopeful that they will enhance the team’s performance and boost their chances for Nigeria’s qualification for World Cup 2026. The coming weeks will be crucial for the Super Eagles as they strive to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
