Despite a rocky start to their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Super Eagles head coach Eric Sekhou Chelle is optimistic that Nigeria still has a strong chance to secure a spot in the global football showpiece.
After an early setback that saw the Super Eagles fail to win any of their first four qualifying matches, the team showed signs of revival under Chelle’s leadership. A 2-0 victory over Rwanda raised hopes, but a disappointing draw against Zimbabwe has left Nigeria with an uphill task. The result means the Super Eagles now trail Group G leaders, South Africa, by six points. The South Africans, under coach Hugo Broos, remain in a commanding position, with hopes of qualifying for their first World Cup since 2010.
Chelle remains resolute, however, insisting that Nigeria still has the potential to make a comeback. The Malian coach has identified crucial fixtures ahead, starting with the home clash against Rwanda on 3rd September.
Focus on Rwanda, Then South Africa
While many see the game against South Africa as pivotal, Chelle has stressed that the immediate focus must be on defeating Rwanda. Speaking to Brila FM, he said, “The match against South Africa is an obligation to win, but the most important match right now is Rwanda at home. First, we have to beat Rwanda in Uyo, then we can turn our attention to South Africa.”
Nigeria will host Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo before heading to South Africa for the return leg just three days later. With only four matches left in the campaign, the Super Eagles know that securing maximum points in these encounters is vital to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
Preparations Underway for Critical Fixtures
Ahead of these crucial encounters, the NFF has arranged several preparation matches. A friendly against FIFA-banned Russia is reportedly on the cards for June, along with participation in the Unity Cup. The four-nation tournament, which will also feature Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, and Jamaica, will provide Nigeria with valuable practice as they fine-tune their squad for the September qualifiers. While the NFF has yet to confirm these fixtures, the announcement is expected soon.
With the qualification race intensifying, Coach Chelle and his players are fully aware that every match counts. The Super Eagles will need to build on their recent win over Rwanda and deliver a performance of their lives in the coming weeks to stand a chance of reaching the 2026 World Cup.
