Chelle Confident Nigeria Can Still Qualify for 2026 World Cup
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle remains hopeful about Nigeria’s chances of securing a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite a less-than-ideal start to their qualifying campaign.
The 47-year-old Malian tactician, who assumed the role following Nigeria’s winless streak in their first four qualifiers, recently guided the team to a 2-0 win over Rwanda in Kigali. However, a disappointing draw against Zimbabwe has further complicated Nigeria’s route to qualification, leaving them six points behind group leaders South Africa.
Chelle emphasized the importance of winning the remaining fixtures, particularly the upcoming high-stakes clash against South Africa.
“It’s essential that we beat South Africa, but our immediate focus is on Rwanda in Uyo,” Chelle stated. “South Africa are a strong team, and we can’t allow them to dictate the game. First, we must win at home against Rwanda—then our full attention turns to South Africa.”
The Super Eagles are scheduled to host Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on September 3, before heading to South Africa for the crucial encounter on September 7.
With only four matches left in the qualifying series, Nigeria must win all their remaining games and rely on other results going their way to stay in contention for a World Cup spot.
South Africa, aiming for their first World Cup appearance since hosting the tournament in 2010, currently lead the group and are considered favorites to advance.
To boost the team’s preparation, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is arranging a series of friendly matches ahead of the September qualifiers. These include a potential clash with FIFA-suspended Russia in June, as well as participation in a four-nation invitational tournament dubbed “The Unity Cup,” featuring Ghana, Trinidad and Tobago, and Jamaica.
While these fixtures are yet to be officially confirmed, the NFF is expected to make formal announcements in the coming days.
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