Former Super Eagles captain, John Mikel Obi has expressed confidence that Nigeria can still qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite their current position in the standings.
The Super Eagles sit third in Group C with 11 points from eight matches and are set to face Lesotho and Benin Republic in their final two qualifying games.
Nigeria will travel to the New Peter Mokaba Stadium in Polokwane to take on the Crocodiles of Lesotho on Friday before rounding off their campaign at home against the Squirrels of Benin Republic next Tuesday.
Speaking on the ObiOne Podcast, Mikel urged the players to show determination and take full responsibility for securing the ticket to the global tournament.
“It’s going to be a crime, an absolute crime, if Nigeria doesn’t make it to the World Cup again,” he said. “We love our football too much. Our World Cup fate is in the players’ hands, they have to win these two games, no excuses.”
The former Chelsea midfielder emphasized that with focus and unity, the team has what it takes to turn things around and book a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
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