Nigeria midfielder Alex Iwobi has expressed confidence about the Super Eagles chances of securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 2024 AFCON finalist have had a poor start to their qualifying campaign, and are currently fifth in Group C with three points accumulated from their first four games. They prepare to face Rwanda and Zimbabwe in a double header in March.
After missing out on the 2022 edition in Qatar, Iwobi is optimistic that the Super Eagles can overcome an early four-point deficit to group leaders, Rwanda, and participate in the 2026 edition holding in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
“Everyone wants to experience the World Cup- it’s the best and biggest competition in the World.
We know it’s not going to be easy because every team in Africa wants to qualify. It’s basically like going to war everyday, but we will put a fight and try and see what we can do. We are all hungry and motivated”, he told BBC sports.
The Super Eagles drew their first three qualifying matches, before suffering a shock 2-1 loss to minnows Benin Republic on Matchday four.
Only the group winners are assured of automatic qualification for the showpiece event and the Fulham maestro believes the country is blessed with all it takes to qualify.
“No matter what manager comes into play, essentially it’s down to us as players to give 100%. We’ve got the quality, we all play in various high leagues across Europe. We have got to take accountability and get the points to qualify”, the 28-year old added.
Nigeria will also face South Africa and Lesotho before concluding their campaign against the Republic of Benin in October.
Shina Oludare is a distinguished sports journalist and managing editor, renowned for his comprehensive coverage of African football. His dedication to elevating African sports on the global stage has earned him widespread respect, along with numerous accolades for his contributions. A graduate of the LaLiga Business School in Madrid, Oludare’s passion for sports and his influential work in African football journalism have established him as a leading figure in the industry.
