Eguavoen backs Nigeria to qualify for 2026 FIFA World Cup

Photo Credit – NFF.

Former Nigeria national team coach Augustine Eguavoen is confident that the Super Eagles will be one of the African nations participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Nigeria, who are in Group C of the qualifiers, are currently placed fourth with seven points, six less than table leaders South Africa, who have garnered 13, while Rwanda are second on eight points, the same number as third-placed Benin.

From their opening six matches, Nigeria have managed one win, four draws and suffered one defeat. Despite their position in the group, Eguavoen believes the Super Eagles can still win all their remaining matches to qualify for the tournament.

“It’s easier said than done, but we have the potential and the personnel,” the ex-Gent man told ACL Sports, as quoted by Soccernet. “The World Cup is the highest level of football everyone wants to participate in. It’s a tight rope we’re walking, but anything is possible.

“With the boys we have now, and every Nigerian coming together, it is doable. I’m 100 per cent sure because the players want to be at the World Cup. I’m not looking back at the last game, I’m looking forward to the next one. That’s the mindset: one game at a time, treat every game like a final.”

On the appointment of Malian Eric Chelle to manage the Super Eagles, Eguavoen said: “Very good performance. I hope the record continues. There shouldn’t be any distractions, let him be, let him do what he feels is right, and give him control.

“This is not a one-man show. Collectively, we can achieve success. There hasn’t been interference so far, and I believe there won’t be.”

Nigeria will face Rwanda and South Africa next in September’s qualifiers.