Ivorian football legend Didier Drogba has emphasized the importance of Nigeria qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the Super Eagles as one of Africa’s most influential and unifying teams.
Speaking with Sporty TV, the former Chelsea striker urged Nigerians to be patient with the national team despite their uneven qualifying campaign, saying that the presence of the three-time African champions on the world stage is vital for both African football and global representation.
“It would be nice if they qualify because having Nigeria in a World Cup is very important for Africa,” Drogba said. “But if they don’t qualify, whichever team represents us, we will still be proud to support them.”
Nigeria narrowly missed out on topping Group C, finishing second with 17 points, just one behind South Africa, who sealed automatic qualification with a 3–0 win over Rwanda in their final game at the Mbombela Stadium.
Despite the setback, the Super Eagles reignited their qualification hopes with a convincing 4–0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo on Tuesday, showing renewed determination after a rocky start to the campaign.
Eric Chelle’s men will next face Gabon in the semi-finals on November 13, with the winner set to meet either Cameroon or DR Congo for Africa’s sole ticket to the intercontinental playoffs, scheduled to take place in Mexico in March 2026.
Drogba also defended the Super Eagles amid waves of criticism from fans and pundits following their performance in recent tournaments.
> “You know, if Nigeria had won the African Cup of Nations, people wouldn’t be saying all this,” he said. “That’s football, losing doesn’t mean your team isn’t good. They reached the final, and people supported them all the way. But once they lose, it’s all criticism and that’s something common in Africa.”
Drawing comparisons, Drogba added, “Finishing second at AFCON is like Chelsea finishing second in the Premier League people act like it doesn’t count. But it’s still a big achievement.”
The Ivorian icon insisted that Nigeria’s current squad deserves recognition rather than condemnation, praising the team’s depth and star power.
“That level of expectation comes because Nigeria has a history of success,” he noted. “With players like Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, both recent Ballon d’Or winners, the team clearly has the quality to perform. But remember every opponent is also coming to fight. It’s not easy.”
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