Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has expressed strong optimism that Nigeria can still qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite their current struggles in the qualifying campaign.
Speaking after Nigeria’s 1-1 draw against Zimbabwe in Uyo, Chelle revealed that he urged his players to keep pressing for goals following their opening strike, underlining his belief that the team has the potential to bounce back.
Nigeria currently sits fourth in Group C with seven points after six matches, trailing group leaders South Africa, who top the table with 13 points, while Rwanda and the Benin Republic occupy second and third positions with narrow one-point leads over the Super Eagles.
Despite the daunting gap, Chelle, who recently replaced Jose Peseiro and Finidi George after both failed to secure wins in four combined games, remains upbeat. In his short spell in charge, he has managed a 2-0 away victory against Rwanda in Kigali and the recent draw with Zimbabwe.
Speaking in an interview with UK-based Nigerian journalist Osasu Obayiuwana during the 2024 CHAN tournament in Tanzania, Chelle dismissed suggestions that Nigeria’s chances are over. “People have already written us off. But I am not bothered by that. My focus is on preparing the players for the remaining four matches. I believe we are going to surprise many people,” he stated.
The Super Eagles will regroup in Uyo on September 1 ahead of the decisive fixtures, starting with a crucial home clash against Rwanda on September 6, followed by a potentially defining encounter away to South Africa in Bloemfontein on September 9. Their campaign will conclude in October with an away tie against Lesotho before hosting the Benin Republic in the final group match.
Adding another twist, Nigeria, Rwanda, and Benin are closely watching FIFA’s investigation into South Africa, who are accused of fielding an ineligible player during their 2-0 win over Lesotho in March. Should FIFA rule against South Africa, points could be deducted, dramatically altering the group standings and reigniting Nigeria’s qualification hopes.
Chelle’s message is clear: despite the difficult position, the Super Eagles are not out of the race. With determination, tactical adjustments, and a bit of fortune, Nigeria’s World Cup dream is still alive.
