World Cup (Q): Nigeria facing difficult terrain but must not give up – Okpala

Former Nigeria player Sylvanus Okpala has called on the national team not to give up in their quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Super Eagles will face Gabon on November 13 in the semi-finals of the African playoff tournament, which serves as a qualifier for the intercontinental playoffs of the 2026 World Cup.

Nigeria finished second in Group C, behind South Africa, while Gabon came in second behind Ivory Coast in Group E. They managed 17 points, one less than Bafana Bafana after winning four matches, drawing five and losing one.

‘The key is how coach and players respond’

“Like I told you before that match against the Republic of Benin – even when there were two matches remaining— people had written us off. But my point then was based on my attitude as a player and still as a coach: I never give up until there is nothing left to fight or play for,” said Okpala as quoted by Sports Vanguard.

“Even when I was young, during camping at the Green Eagles before the 1980 AFCON, we were up to 50–100 players. I was very young then, but I believed you push until the last minute.

“Even if you tell me I’ve been selected and we’re departing tomorrow, I’d still train hard. I don’t give up. That same spirit helped us this time. And it will continue to help us as we approach the playoff.”

He added: “It is still a long way — a difficult terrain — but not impossible. Let’s see how it goes. The key is how the coach and the players respond. Strategy matters more than formation. Strategy must revolve around the players — their abilities and characteristics. That is how a team goes far.”

Gabon came second in Group F with 25 points, one fewer than African Ivory Coast. Gabon registered eight wins, one draw and lost only once.

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