Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes are hanging by a thread as they need a strong run of form to stand a chance of booking slot for the finals in Mexico, Canada and USA next year.
The three-time AFCON champions currently sit fifth in Group C with just three points from four matches, trailing Rwanda who they next play away from home.
2026 World Cup Qualifying: Group C through four matches
Points | |
Rwanda | 7 |
South Africa | 7 |
Benin | 7 |
Lesotho | 5 |
Nigeria | 3 |
Zimbabwe | 2 |
The group winner qualifies for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Four of the nine group runners-up qualify for a playoff to determine Africa's representative at the intercontinental playoffs.
The 2013 continental champions have so far managed only draws against Lesotho, Zimbabwe and South Africa before suffering a disappointing 2-1 defeat to Benin.
The jerky performances have left former Super Eagles defender Abbey George asking questions about the chances of a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
“I cried in my room when we failed in Kano,” Abbey told Brila Media. "My kids ask me if I ever played at the World Cup, and I say no. It would be a very big shame if these players never play at the World Cup."
“They’re at the peak of their powers.” Abbey said.
The 2023 AFCON runners-up will first travel to Rwanda to face Adel Amrouche’s charges in Kigali before hosting Zimbabwe at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo with the aim of reviving their poor campaign.
Comments