2026 World Cup: Nigeria’s dream still alive – Chelle
Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, believes that Nigeria can still secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite a challenging start to the qualifiers.
Before his appointment, the Super Eagles failed to win any of their first four qualifying matches, leaving fans worried about their chances.
A 2-0 victory against Amavubi (Rwanda) in Kigali brightened the country’s prospects, but a subsequent draw against Zimbabwe at home has complicated Nigeria’s path, leaving them six points behind group leaders South Africa, who are aiming to qualify for their first World Cup since 2010.
With four matches remaining, the Super Eagles must win all their upcoming games and hope South Africa drops points.
The former Malian national team handler has identified the upcoming match against South Africa as crucial for Nigeria’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
“It’s an obligation to win in South Africa, but first, we need to focus on our game against Rwanda at home,” Chelle said.
He emphasized the importance of the match, which will take place at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on September 3. After that, the team will travel to face South Africa on September 7.
