With the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches commencing in March 2025, Nigeria faces uncertainty regarding the Super Eagles' chances of securing Group C's sole qualification spot. Currently fifth, behind Rwanda, South Africa, Benin, and Lesotho, their position is precarious.
To claim first place, the currently coachless Super Eagles must win their remaining six matches, accumulating 18 points to reach a total of 23.
Prior to 1994, Nigeria's national team (known as the Red Devils, Green Eagles, or Super Eagles) consistently failed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup. Their closest attempt was in 1977, where a home victory against Tunisia was needed but lost due to an own goal by Godwin Odiye.
Following the nation's independence from Britain in 1960, the national football team first entered the CAF World Cup qualifiers for the 1962 tournament in Chile. Six teams participated: Egypt, Sudan, Nigeria, Ghana, Morocco, and Tunisia. However, only four competed, as Egypt (then the United Arab Republic) and Sudan withdrew.
Morocco played Tunisia, and Nigeria played Ghana in two-legged matches. Morocco and Tunisia each won their home games 2-1. A playoff in Palermo, Italy, resulted in a 1-1 draw after extra time. Instead of a penalty shootout, a coin toss determined the winner, with Morocco prevailing.
Ghana defeated Nigeria 4-1 in the first leg in Accra and the return leg in Lagos ended 2-2 and so Ghana went ahead to play Morocco but lost out to the North Africans.
Regrettably, Africa failed to secure a qualifying berth as Morocco's inter-confederation playoff match against Spain resulted in a loss.
In the 1966 qualifying rounds, Nigeria was one of fifteen African nations to register; however, all participating teams withdrew in protest following FIFA's refusal to grant Africa a direct qualifying spot.
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In the 1962 qualifying rounds, a playoff match against a UEFA team and subsequently an Asia-Oceania team was necessary. During the 1970 World Cup qualifiers, following a victory over Ghana, Morocco secured the sole qualifying berth, eliminating Nigeria.
In 1974, Ghana again prevented Nigerian qualification. An own goal by Godwin Odiye in Lagos cost Nigeria a place in the 1978 World Cup. Despite FIFA allocating Africa two qualifying spots by 1982, Nigeria failed to qualify, a situation that repeated in 1986 and 1990.
The 1994 African Cup of Nations-winning Super Eagles team secured Nigeria's first World Cup qualification, for the 1994 tournament in the United States, with relative ease.
Following their debut, the Super Eagles have only missed two World Cup editions: the 2006 tournament in Germany, where they were eliminated by Angola based on head-to-head results, and the recent Qatar tournament, resulting in a loss to Ghana following aggregate scores of 0-0 in Accra and 1-1 in Abuja.
This marks the first time since 1994 that the Super Eagles find themselves in such a challenging position, prompting questions from Nigerians regarding their ability to overcome this self-imposed predicament stemming from inconsistent match performance.
Unlike the proverbial monkey seeking assistance, the Super Eagles must rely solely on their determination and skill to achieve the improbable—winning all six remaining matches. Failure to do so will result in their elimination from the 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Determining the appropriate individual to lead the team presents a significant challenge. Regardless of whether the appointment is interim or permanent, and irrespective of whether the candidate is domestic or international, success appears improbable given the Super Eagles' recent performance.
The team's inability to achieve six consecutive victories in the past year raises serious concerns regarding their prospects. How can they overcome this obstacle amidst considerable pressure?
Between January and November, the team played 18 matches (three friendlies), achieving only nine wins. One victory resulted from a penalty shootout against South Africa at the AFCON, and another was awarded against Libya in a 2025 AFCON qualifier.
Therefore, only seven wins were secured in regulation time, yielding a 39% probability of replicating this success in the six remaining World Cup matches, commencing March 17, 2025, against Rwanda. This match is particularly significant given Rwanda's recent victory in Uyo.
After the Kigali match, two consecutive home matches are scheduled against Zimbabwe on March 24th and Rwanda on September 25th. In September, the team will travel to Johannesburg to face Bafana Bafana; their coach, Hugo Broos, has emphatically stated that Nigeria will not qualify ahead of South Africa.
The final home game, on October 13th, will be against Gernot Rohr's Cheetahs, who previously defeated the team in Abidjan. Should the Super Eagles lose any of the five preceding matches, the NFF should conserve resources by forgoing the call-up of European-based players for the final, inconsequential away match against Lesotho, instead deploying the leading NPFL club or the CHAN Eagles.
However, should the Super Eagles qualify, it would be a remarkable achievement, surpassing even the extraordinary feat of preparing the Lagos National Stadium for the 1999 FIFA U-20 World Cup, as described by former FIFA vice president Jack Warner.
Indiscipline: Major crux of Super Eagles
Renowned American author and entrepreneur, Jim Rohn, may have been prescient in his observation that "discipline is the bridge between goals and accomplishment." This highlights discipline as the essential element for goal attainment.
As the 2026 World Cup qualifiers approach, concerns regarding potential indiscipline within the Super Eagles team have emerged as a significant obstacle to Nigeria's qualification hopes from a group initially perceived as advantageous, including South Africa, Benin, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, and Lesotho.
Regrettably, the Super Eagles' current standing is second-to-last in Group C, with a mere three points from a possible twelve after four of five group matches. This leaves them with six matches remaining to secure qualification for the expanded 48-team tournament (previously 32 teams), scheduled for June 11th to July 19th, 2026. This tournament marks the first time 48 teams will compete and will be hosted across sixteen cities in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The probability of Nigeria's participation appears low at this juncture.
Reports of team indiscipline are circulating, with former national team players expressing serious concerns. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) bears significant responsibility for failing to adequately address player behavior and maintain order. The lack of a permanent coach further exacerbates the situation, as interim coach Austin Eguavoen lacks the authority to effectively manage a team he did not assemble. Player allegiances appear to lie elsewhere.
My primary concern remains player conduct– Udeze
Former international Vitalis Ifeanyichukwu Udeze expressed concern that Nigeria's World Cup qualification hinges on the players' conduct. He stated that a lack of discipline and commitment within the team, including late arrivals to training camp without consequence, is detrimental to their performance. This contrasts sharply with his experience, where strict adherence to camp rules fostered team cohesion and ultimately, success. He concludes that without strong team unity and adherence to the coach's strategy, a negative outcome is inevitable.
The player invitation standard has been lowered. – Onazi
Former Super Eagles player Ogenyi Onazi concurs with Udeze's assessment that the current team's commitment is questionable, proposing stricter team regulations and a formal code of conduct. He notes a decline in the prestige of national team selection, asserting that invitations are no longer solely merit-based on club performance but should also consider discipline, respect, and appropriate conduct. He further contends that the current selection process has undermined team unity and brotherhood, emphasizing the need for comprehensive regulations to facilitate World Cup qualification.
Though most of the ex players we talked to refrained from hitting the nail on the head, it was so obvious that they appointed accusing fingers on the soccer-ruling body, the Nigeria Football Federation. There have been allegations levelled against the body that some big guns have special players they invite to the camp without the knowledge of the coach. And such players see themselves as sacred cows which are above the law. Many others said that if the Super Eagles fail to qualify for the World Cup that the reason would be due to the ineptitude of those charged with the responsibility of managing our football. A clear case example of condoning indiscipline and looking the other way was during the height of the brouhaha between Victor Osimhen and coach Finidi George.
The unprofessional conduct of some Super Eagles players, with the unchecked access granted to content creators disrupting team discipline, has raised concerns among many football enthusiasts. This situation is further complicated by Coach Eguavoen's prioritization of securing his position over addressing the disruptive behavior of influential players.
The NFF's actions are fostering indiscipline within the Eagles' training environment – Enyeama
Former goalkeeper Vincent Enyeama unequivocally attributed the indiscipline within the Nigerian national team ("Eagles") to the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). He stated that the NFF, as the governing body, is responsible for enforcing regulations, including timely player arrival at training camps.
He noted that a proper schedule, mirroring club commitments, should ensure players report the day after club matches. However, he observed that players frequently arrive two or three days late without facing consequences.
Former Eagles player Victor Agali also attributed much of the national team's turmoil to the NFF. Their commitment to the image of Nigerian football is questionable. The national team's struggles stem primarily from inadequate management. Furthermore, what support have they provided the coaches?
Optimism Regarding Qualification
Despite the challenges facing the Super Eagles, there remains a group of optimists who believe that the team can still qualify for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Among these supporters is former Super Eagles captain, Henry Nwosu.
Nwosu emphasizes that it is never too late to achieve one's potential. He is joined in his optimism by Sani Toro, the former Secretary General of the NFA, who oversaw the Green Eagles' qualification for their inaugural World Cup in 1994. Toro firmly believes that the only barrier to realizing future success lies in the doubts we harbor today.
Coaches Should Value Home-Based Players — Henry Nwosu
Regarding Nigeria's prospects, Nwosu stated, “Nigeria can still qualify for the 2026 World Cup. The key is for the players to focus on their performances and exert the same effort they do at their clubs. It is essential that the coaching staff does not overlook home-based players.”
He advocates for their inclusion in the national team, reminiscent of past practices. “They should be given the opportunity to compete for their positions. Foreign-based players might become complacent, as they have less at stake; regardless of their performance, they will return to their clubs. In contrast, home-based players are driven and eager to prove themselves and attract attention from foreign clubs. If they demonstrate superior performance, they deserve a place in the team.”
On Coaching
“I believe we have a capable coach in Augustine Eguavoen, even though he currently serves as the Technical Director of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). He deserves our support. Seeking a new coach at this juncture would hinder progress, as it takes time for a new coach to acclimate and understand the players.”
“Again, Eguavoen should be given a free hand to pick his players without any interference. Eguavoen should be there, he can handle the team. We have coaches here who can do the Eagles job.
"Emmanuel Amuneke demonstrates exceptional skill as both a player and a coach. Nigeria possesses a strong pool of coaching talent; however, optimal performance requires a supportive work environment, operational autonomy, robust disciplinary measures, and equitable compensation comparable to that offered to international coaches. Empowering Mr. Eguavoen with complete authority will facilitate positive change, fostering improved player conduct and discipline through his ability to select and dismiss players. Therefore, appointing a new coach is currently unnecessary."
Eguavoen should remain in his current position.
Sani Toro advocates for Eguavoen's continuation as head coach of the Super Eagles. The former Secretary General of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) emphasized the importance of stability within the coaching staff, stating, "In our pursuit of World Cup qualification, continuity is crucial. Augustine Eguavoen remains the Acting Head Coach, and both the players and he have mutual confidence."
He expressed optimism regarding the Super Eagles' chances of qualifying, urging the new Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC) and the NFF president to collaborate on a unified strategy for success. "We must move past the performances in the last two AFCON qualifiers; the priority now is qualification. Once achieved, we can develop further strategies."
Toro asserted that there is no immediate need to hire a new coach, arguing that introducing a new figure at this stage could create complications. "I firmly believe we should support Eguavoen and the team. Bringing in a new coach now would lead to issues. I advocate for Eguavoen to continue in his role."
He expressed hope for Eguavoen's success, noting that qualification would pave the way for the NSC and NFF to seek a permanent coach. "For the time being, I want Eguavoen to remain in charge. We must unite in our efforts, as division could lead to failure."
Eguavoen: To be or not to be?
The Super Eagles' challenging position in their quest for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has left many Nigerians feeling uncertain.
The mere idea of not seeing their national flag raised in the United States, Mexico, and Canada during the upcoming Mundial sends chills through the hearts of passionate football fans. Some supporters are at a loss, wishing for a football genius to magically secure their team's qualification for the World Cup. While a few optimists believe the goal is still within reach, others, who consider themselves realists, view the situation as hopeless. Many are advocating for the hiring of a foreign coach.
We will utilize domestic coaching expertise—Akanni
Waidi Akanni, a former international player for Nigeria and a past Chairman of the Lagos State Football Association, has strongly opposed the idea of bringing in a foreign coach.
“To be frank, I believe Eguavoen should be kept on. This is not just because I know him, but due to the positive impact he has made on the national team over the past few months. It is evident to all. Even when winning wasn’t essential, he provided opportunities for fringe players against Rwanda to assess their capabilities and validate their positions on the team.
“My conviction is that he should be allowed to continue his work. He has the potential to achieve even more, as he also oversees the home-based Eagles for CHAN. In my opinion, Eguavoen should be given the chance to persist. Technically, his contributions are clear. The players respect him, and he has established a strong connection with them. While some may argue that we are not achieving favorable results, I believe better outcomes will come with time.
“Furthermore, I don’t consider the World Cup to be Nigeria’s entitlement. Some may disagree with me on this point. However, I think if we had started off on a stronger note, we wouldn’t be in this state of anxiety now. The path to Nigeria’s World Cup qualification is quite precarious. Based on my experience in the game, it means we must win all our remaining matches at home and hope for mistakes from the current leaders, Rwanda and South Africa. It’s easier said than done.”
South Africa and other competing teams, including Benin and Rwanda, are also preparing for the World Cup, as they all aspire to qualify. While Nigeria's chances of qualifying are not impossible, the odds are certainly not in their favor. Given this context, one must question the necessity of hiring a foreign coach. Why invest significant resources in searching for a coach when qualification remains uncertain? Personally, I find the situation quite challenging.
I believe we should retain Eguavoen and allow him to continue his current approach, with the hope of establishing a solid foundation for both the home-based Eagles and the foreign-based Super Eagles.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is determined to hire a foreign coach, believing that they possess superior technical skills compared to Nigerian coaches, including Eguavoen.
I disagree with this perspective, as every coach has their own strengths. While foreign coaches may have the advantage of international connections, it does not necessarily mean they are technically superior. Coaches possess varying qualities, and considering the caliber of players we currently have in Nigeria—such as Osimhen, Iwobi, and Lookman—it is crucial to engage a coach of high standards. We need someone who commands respect and can effectively enhance the prospects of Nigerian football. That is my viewpoint, but I still advocate for keeping Eguavoen.
Nigeria requires top-tier coaches.
We live in a connected world, and there are opportunities to research coaches who are currently unemployed globally. However, the issue of timely payment for coaches could pose a challenge in our search. Therefore, I suggest we focus on developing our existing talent. Although we refer to them as local coaches, they are performing admirably.
“We have Finidi George who is back to coaching a club – though he didn’t do well with the national team, Daniel Amokachi is back – I say give the national team to Amokachi on his own, I guarantee you will see a massive difference. That is one person I can vouch for. You have Emmanuel Amuneke who I consider as a foreign coach because he doesn’t live in Nigeria until recently.
He got all his coaching qualifications abroad and he lives in Barcelona. I think it has to do with our colour and mentality. We need to keep these guys and keep them fit. We need to improve them and send them to training courses to update their knowledge of the game.”
From the concern of stakeholders, one believes the Super Eagles can still qualify for the 2026 World Cup, all things being equal. Realistically though, qualification is in the their hands of the players and coach, that is if they are able to surmount all odds and win all six remaining matches, given that Nigerians would cherish a qualification that is gradually becoming illusive to the country.
Going by antecedents, however, it is yet to be seen how a team that has not recorded six straight wins over a decade, could achieve that fit now, but as they say in football, anything can happen.
Finidi George has returned to coaching at the club level, despite his previous challenges with the national team. Meanwhile, Daniel Amokachi is also back in the fold, and I believe he should be given the opportunity to lead the national team independently; I am confident that his leadership would bring about significant improvements. He is someone I can wholeheartedly support. Additionally, Emmanuel Amuneke, who I regard as a foreign coach due to his recent residency in Nigeria, has obtained all his coaching credentials abroad and currently resides in Barcelona.
It seems that our cultural background and mindset play a role in our footballing approach. We must retain these talented individuals, ensure their fitness, and invest in their development through training programs to enhance their understanding of the game.
From the perspective of stakeholders, there is a belief that the Super Eagles still have a chance to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, provided all factors align favorably. However, the reality is that qualification ultimately depends on the players and the coach, particularly if they can overcome challenges and secure victories in all six remaining matches. Nigerians are eager for a qualification that has become increasingly elusive.
Historically, it remains uncertain how a team that has not achieved six consecutive wins in over a decade can accomplish this feat now, but as the saying goes in football, anything is possible. -Vanguard