Nigerians are on edge as the Super Eagles head into their final group match on Tuesday, knowing that only a win — and a failure by South Africa to secure victory — will keep their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes alive. The tension is palpable across the country, with millions of fans anxiously counting down to what could be a defining night for Nigerian football.
After a campaign marked by missed chances, injuries, and inconsistent displays, the once-dominant Eagles now find themselves in a precarious position.
Despite the tournament’s expanded format offering Africa additional qualification slots, Nigeria’s path to North America hangs by the thinnest of threads.
Last Friday’s away victory and South Africa’s goalless draw against Zimbabwe has boosted their chances. Meanwhile, coach Eric Chelle and captain William Troost-Ekong have praised the Super Eagles’ resilience after a crucial 2-1 win over Lesotho in Polokwane, South Africa on Friday. The victory keeps Nigeria’s hope alive for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification.
Chelle acknowledged the pressure on the team since March.
He said the win was vital and congratulated his players for their determination.
“We won the three points today. We are still alive. Journalists can now start doing their mathematics and permutations,” Chelle said.
He said the players have felt immense pressure during camps. In spite of missing chances in the first half, he was proud of their performance.
Chelle urged Nigerian fans to back the team in large numbers ahead of the final qualifier against Benin Republic in Uyo.
“This is the final round. The game starts the moment Benin steps on Nigerian soil. We need to do the job on the pitch,” he added.
Captain Troost-Ekong acknowledged Lesotho’s strong challenge.
“Lesotho played a great game. It wasn’t easy. We understand the frustration because they fought hard,” Ekong said.
He stressed the team’s winning mentality and readiness for the decisive match.
“We want to win convincingly in Uyo. This is the final moment, and we will work hard to get there,” he said.
Nigeria is third in Group C with 14 points. Benin Republic leads with 17 points, followed by South Africa with 15.
To qualify automatically, Nigeria must beat Benin Republic convincingly in Uyo on October 14, and hope that South Africa drops points against Rwanda in Durban.
A 2-0 win over Benin would lift Nigeria to 17 points, matching Benin but giving Nigeria the edge on goal difference.
If Nigeria wins 2-1, tiebreakers will decide the group winner.
