Chukwueze on Nigeria’s World Cup qualifiers: “We have to win”

Nigeria national team winger Samuel Chukwueze has underscored the importance of securing victories in upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa.

Chukwueze made this known in an interview with Fulham TV after finalizing his loan move to English Premier League side Fulham. The Super Eagles forward emphasized that the team’s fate rests on getting maximum points from both must-win encounters.

Chukwueze, who joined Super Eagles teammates Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey at Fulham, acknowledged the pressure and the need for a focused approach.

“For now, I am just focusing on the game. We need the two games, Rwanda and South Africa. So, I think we have to win the two games to secure our World Cup ticket.”

Eric Chelle’s men currently sit in fourth position in Group C with seven points from six games. South Africa’s Bafana Bafana top the standings with 13 points from the same number of matches.

The 26-year-old is expected to join the Super Eagles’ camp in Uyo on Tuesday to prepare for the crucial fixtures. Nigeria will welcome Rwanda in a matchday seven fixture at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Saturday.

The West Africans will keep a date with South Africa three days later in Bloemfontein.

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