Legendary Super Eagles figure John Obi Mikel has passionately called on the Nigerian national team to fiercely compete for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Nigeria’s chances of reaching the 2026 World Cup received a boost following South Africa’s deduction of three points, yet the path to qualification remains challenging and far from guaranteed.
Coach Eric Chelle‘s squad must secure victories against Lesotho and Benin to keep their World Cup ambitions alive.
Mikel Obi Calls on Nigeria to Secure World Cup Qualification
Former captain of the Nigerian team, Mikel Obi, expressed on the ObiOne Podcast that missing out on the World Cup would be a devastating blow for a nation deeply passionate about football.
Eric Chelle has made adjustments to his 23-player roster || Image credit: Imago/Premium Times
“It would be a grave injustice if Nigeria fails to qualify for the World Cup once again,” Mikel emphasized.
“Football is in our blood. The responsibility lies with the players-they must triumph in these upcoming matches without any excuses.”
Currently, the Super Eagles sit third in Group C, having accumulated 11 points from eight fixtures, trailing South Africa and Benin by three points, with the latter two leading on goal difference.
The team’s next challenge is an away game at the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane this Friday against Lesotho’s Crocodiles, followed by a home clash with Benin Republic the following Tuesday.
On the other side, South Africa’s coach Hugo Broos remains confident his squad will clinch qualification despite the penalty. He also asserted that Nigeria cannot surpass 17 points, which strengthens South Africa’s position in the group.