Despite a less than ideal start to their qualifying campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle remains optimistic about Nigeria’s chances of securing a spot in the tournament.
The coach appears to have moved past the setback of a draw against Zimbabwe and is concentrating on upcoming matches, recognizing the significant role the three-time African champions can play in their qualification aspirations for the global event in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Chelle has outlined a path for the Super Eagles to still qualify, even after their slow beginning in the qualifiers.
Before his arrival, Nigeria had not won any of their initial four qualifying games. However, Chelle provided a boost by leading the team to a 2-0 victory against Rwanda in Kigali.
Nevertheless, a subsequent draw with Zimbabwe has made their qualification journey more challenging, as Nigeria now trails group leaders South Africa by six points, putting South Africa in a strong position to qualify for their first World Cup since 2010.
With four matches still to play, the Super Eagles likely need to win all of them and hope that their competitors lose points. Chelle has pinpointed their upcoming match against South Africa as a crucial moment in their World Cup qualification efforts.
“It’s an obligation to win in South Africa, but the most important match for us right now is Rwanda in Uyo,” Chelle said
“South Africa are a good side, but for that game, we cannot afford to let them play. First, we have to beat Rwanda at home, then we will focus on South Africa.”
Nigeria is scheduled to host Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on September 3rd, followed by a crucial away match against South Africa on September 7th.
To keep their hopes of qualifying for the World Cup alive, the Super Eagles will need to perform at their peak in these encounters.
The Nigeria Football Federation is planning several preparatory matches leading up to September, with a friendly against Russia, currently banned by FIFA, reportedly slated for June.
Additionally, there are reports of the Super Eagles participating in a four-nation tournament called “The Unity Cup” in June, potentially involving West African rivals Ghana, as well as Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica.
However, the football federation has not yet officially confirmed these preparatory games but is expected to announce their schedule for the June international break soon.
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